Chief Minister Lalduhoma and Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Monday flagged off the inaugural Silchar-Sairang passenger train, creating the Barak Valley’s first direct rail link to Mizoram’s capital, Aizawl.

The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) launched the service from Sairang Railway Station at 12 noon, following persistent efforts by Rajya Sabha MP Kanad Purkayastha. Union Minister Vaishnaw participated via video conference, emphasizing the train’s significance in enhancing regional integration.

The event also saw the inauguration of upgraded passenger facilities at Guwahati Railway Station, including sleeping pods, an air-conditioned lounge, and a multi-cuisine restaurant to improve commuter comfort.

Divisional Railway Manager Samir Lohani of the Lumding Division described the new train service as a milestone for socio-economic development in the region, projecting benefits in trade, tourism, and connectivity between Assam and Mizoram.