Mizoram and adjoining areas have gained rail connectivity for the first time following the inauguration of the Bairabi-Sairang line by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The new service is expected to facilitate the marketing of indigenous fruits from the region to wider domestic and international markets.
Local produce such as passion fruit (Sapthei), pineapples, mandarins, and papayas will now be able to reach markets faster by train. A senior railway official noted that Mizoram also cultivates native and semi-wild fruits such as Hatkora, Vuakdup, Tuajtit, and Tawitaw. "Mizoram's Sapthei fruit, which is highly rich in vitamins, is more in demand across the country after Hatkora – a semi-wild, native citrus variety which carries medicinal and nutritional properties. The train connectivity is a boon for cultivators of these fruits in Mizoram," the official said. He added that Mizoram papayas are consistently in demand and would benefit from the new logistics channel.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the project will reduce costs for both agricultural goods and industrial commodities. "We are also starting cargo operations within a week that will help in fast transportation of goods and other things. As result of this service, cost of cement will reduce, cost of steel will reduce as the train will transport these in hours instead of taking many days," he said. Vaishnaw also announced that a refrigerated coach will be introduced to handle perishable produce.
Other fruits such as Vuakdup and Theichhungensen, the latter used in fermentation to increase alcohol content, are also expected to gain access to new markets due to faster transport.
The Bairabi-Sairang line connects Mizoram's capital with the national rail network. Construction required 45 tunnels and 55 major bridges to navigate the state's terrain. According to officials, cargo services will start immediately, and farmers in the region are expected to benefit from lower transport costs and improved access to consumers.
Source: New Indian Express