Aizawl, May 28: The Chief Minister of Mizoram, Lalduhoma, has made a request to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for the introduction of a Rajdhani Express service that would link the state with New Delhi, following the commissioning of the Bairabi-Sairang railway line.

During a meeting with the Railway Minister in New Delhi on Tuesday, Lalduhoma also proposed establishing a direct train route between Sairang and Kolkata, as well as another service connecting Sairang to Tripura, according to an official statement.

The Bairabi-Sairang line, which spans 51.38 kilometers and aims to enhance connectivity for Mizoram, is anticipated to be operational by July, as reported by the North East Frontier Railway, which is overseeing its construction.

Officials noted that trial runs have been successfully conducted, and safety inspections are currently in progress.

This railway line will connect Sairang, situated approximately 21 kilometers from Aizawl, to Silchar in Assam. The project was sanctioned in the 2008-2009 period, with construction commencing in 2015.

With a budget of Rs 8,200 crore, the railway line features four stations: Hortoki, Kawnpui, Mualkhang, and Sairang, and includes 55 major and 87 minor bridges, 47 tunnels, five road overbridges, and six underpasses.

Lalduhoma also requested the Railway Minister to upgrade the Sairang railway station into a world-class facility, ensuring it includes amenities such as internet access, a reservation center, and a parcel management system.

Additionally, he emphasized the importance of prioritizing local residents for employment opportunities at the newly constructed stations.

In response, Vaishnaw assured Lalduhoma that he would take necessary actions to address these requests.

Earlier this month marked a historic moment for Mizoram, as a railway engine arrived at Sairang for the first time.

According to NFR authorities, the Bairabi-Sairang project is nearing completion, with 95% of the work finished and Rs 7,714 crore already utilized from the total sanctioned budget of Rs 8,215 crore.

The line is expected to be fully operational by July, pending a final inspection by the Commissioner of Railway Safety, which is set to occur in May or June.