By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Sep 13: Landlocked Mizoram and its capital Aizawl have been connected to the national railway network with the inauguration of the Bairabi–Sairang line, but Meghalaya continues to oppose railways fearing influx.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated the Bairabi–Sairang Railway line along with three trains that links Mizoram directly to the national capital and other parts of the country.
In contrast, pressure groups in Khasi-Jaintia Hills remain firm in their opposition to railway projects, fearing an unchecked influx of outsiders in the absence of a regulatory mechanism.
Reacting to the introduction of railways in Mizoram, Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh underlined the need to maintain a balance between economic growth and demographic concerns.
“One cannot be compromised over the other,” he said.
Lyngdoh further informed that Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, during a recent meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, reiterated the state’s demand for ILP. He added that once ILP is approved and adapted to Meghalaya’s needs, resistance to railway connectivity would die down.
While Mizoram has overcome challenges in bringing railways to the state, it relies on the ILP framework to regulate the movement of people — a safeguard that Meghalaya still lacks.
The inauguration of the 51.38-km Bairabi–Sairang railway project in Mizoram has drawn enthusiastic reactions from local residents and students, who see the move as a significant milestone for connectivity, trade, and opportunities in the region.
A local resident said, “It is very exciting to have the railway coming, with the knowledge that we are the fourth Northeast state to join the Indian Railways network. It will improve our connectivity and create new opportunities for trade, education and tourism.”
Among young voices, one student expressed optimism, saying, “I hope this railway line will improve our economy and I hope this railway link will be used by the young people of Mizoram. It will be useful for us.”
Another student echoed similar feelings, remarking, “It will lead our society towards development and young people to work hard in a sharper way.”
The sentiment was shared by Mizoram Minister Lalnghinglova Hmar, who praised the initiative: “I am very thankful to PM Narendra Modi for inaugurating the railway station in Mizoram. Thanks also go to the Railway Minister and everyone involved in making this possible.” (With agency inputs)