GUWAHATI: Stressing on its commitment to bolster trade connectivity and strengthen ties between India and Myanmar, the Railway Board has given the green light to the proposed new broad-gauge railway line between Mizoram and Myanmar border.
In a statement issued by the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) on August 3, the Final Location Survey (FLS) of the 223 km stretch from Sairang (Aizawl) to Hbichhuah in Mizoram, close to the Myanmar border, was accorded an approval as a part of the Centre’s Act East Policy.
Highlighting the strategic significance of the region and its potential for economic development, the Ministry of Railways has taken the decision to undertake this transformative project.
By establishing an additional access point to Northeast India via Hbichhuah, the initiative is expected to reduce transportation costs and time for goods through the Sittwe Port in Myanmar to the Northeast region.
The recently inaugurated Sittwe Port in Myanmar, by Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, further emphasises the growing importance of enhancing trade and connectivity in the region.
Currently, NFR is making rapid progress on the execution of a 51.38-km-long broad-gauge railway line project between Bairabi and Sairang. Additionally, the final location survey for the 111 km long Imphal – Moreh railway line connectivity project along the Myanmar Border is also nearing completion.
Official sources have stated that the proposed new broad-gauge railway line will play a pivotal role in significantly enhancing trade connectivity and fostering stronger bonds between India and Myanmar, as well as with the wider region. This transformative railway project holds great promise for the socio-economic growth of both nations and reinforces their commitment to expanding regional cooperation.
