Agartala: The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has successfully completed the statutory inspection for the electrification of the Agartala-Sabroom railway section under the Lumding division, marking a significant step towards modernising railway infrastructure in the northeast, an NFR official confirmed on Sunday.
The inspection, conducted by Principal Chief Electrical Engineer (PCEE) Sandeep Kumar, is a crucial step in preparing for the launch of commercial services using 25 KV electric traction.
This milestone paves the way for more efficient and sustainable rail services in the region.
According to NFR’s Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO), Kapinjal Kishore Sharma, the statutory inspection is a mandatory process to ensure safety and operational compliance before full-scale commercial electric train services can begin.
Earlier, the NFR successfully conducted a trial run of an electric train between Dharmanagar and Agartala on February 8.
Sharma highlighted that the electrification of the Agartala-Sabroom section is a key part of Indian Railways’ broader vision to improve operational efficiency, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and minimise environmental impact.
“Transitioning to electric traction will significantly cut down carbon emissions, providing a more sustainable, eco-friendly alternative to diesel locomotives. Electric trains will also offer improved speed, reliability, and reduced travel time, making rail operations more energy-efficient and cost-effective,” he said.
The electrification project is set to boost both passenger and freight transport in the region, improving connectivity and contributing to economic growth.
The NFR official added that the upgraded infrastructure would facilitate faster services, driving trade, tourism, and industrial development, while offering passengers better travel comfort and service reliability.
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However, Sharma noted that electrification work from Maibong to Chandranathpur (107 km) in the Lumding section is still underway, preventing electric trains from running between Agartala and Guwahati.
“We aim to complete the electrification from Maibong to Chandranathpur within the next three to four months, although the upcoming monsoon season may impact progress,” he said.
Once the full electrification from Lumding to Agartala, including Maibong-Chandranathpur, is completed, electric trains will be able to run between Guwahati and Agartala.
Sharma further emphasised that this electrification initiative aligns with Indian Railways’ goal of achieving 100% broad-gauge electrification, in line with the Centre’s commitment to sustainable and efficient transportation.
