When the Indian Railways began operations in the Northeastern region in 1875 with a 38-mile line from Dalsinghsarai to Darbhanga in a drought-prone area, no one could have imagined that this foundation stone would one day evolve into a lifeline for the entire Northeast. This vision has become more evident with the recent milestone of connecting Mizoram’s capital, Aizawl, to the national railway network through the Bairabi–Sairang line.
Since 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for the Northeast has been clear. Leaders such as Kiren Rijiju and Himanta Biswa Sarma were entrusted with the responsibility of transforming the region, and today Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw is giving wings to that dream. The NDA government’s intent is unmistakable: the northeastern states are gradually joining the mainstream of development.
Until now, Bairabi in Kolasib district, near the Assam border, was the only railway station in Mizoram. With Sairang, a suburb of Aizawl just 20 km from the city, now connected, development is set to gain further momentum. Following this achievement, attention has turned to Sikkim.
The Sivok–Rangpo New Line Project is an ambitious initiative to link Sikkim to the national railway network for the first time. The 45 km line, costing ₹7,876.92 crore, has achieved 73% physical progress and is targeted for completion by December 2027. The line runs from Sivok (West Bengal) to Rangpo (Sikkim). Currently, Sikkim has no railway connectivity.
This project is part of India’s broader strategy to enhance border infrastructure and promote regional economic growth. It will also play a vital role in defence logistics, enabling faster movement of military personnel and equipment along the Sino-Indian border in Sikkim. The line includes 14 tunnels, with the longest measuring 5,300 metres and the shortest 542 metres.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has assured that ongoing projects in the Northeast are progressing at a good pace despite geographical challenges. The average budget allocation for infrastructure in the region has also increased, with ₹10,440 crore earmarked for 2025–26.
In addition, the Ministry of Railways has approved the final location survey for a new proposed line in Sikkim. This line will run from Melli to Dentam via Jorethang and Legship. Planned as a strategic extension of the under-construction Sivok–Rangpo line, it will likely transform Melli into a junction, ensuring seamless integration of southern and western Sikkim into the national network.
This new connectivity project is expected to catalyze economic growth in Gyalshing and nearby areas by promoting tourism, boosting trade, and generating employment opportunities. Chief Minister P. S. Tamang has confirmed that by the end of 2027, Sikkim will have direct railway connectivity through the Sukna–Sivok–Rangpo line. This will eliminate the current need to transit via Bagdogra, making travel to Sikkim far more convenient.
The Modi government’s commitment to improving infrastructure in the Northeast is evident. By bringing remote regions closer to the national mainstream and ensuring hassle-free travel, these projects promise to transform transportation and foster economic prosperity in the beautiful state of Sikkim.