IRCTC, Mizoram Government Ink MoU to Boost Tourism With Rail-Link

The capital city of Mizoram, Aizawl, is set to be connected to the Indian Railways network for the first time with the completion of the Bairabi–Sairang New Railway Line Project in NFR. This vital infrastructure, undertaken as part of the capital connectivity projects, will greatly enhance travel and economic opportunities for Mizoram. Once operational, railway services will extend to Sairang, just a short distance from Aizawl, significantly improving accessibility to the hill state of NE.

In anticipation of this transformative development, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) have signed a two-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Mizoram Government in August 2025 to promote both inbound and outbound tourism for the state. Under this agreement, IRCTC will act as the front-end marketing agency while Mizoram Tourism will provide access to tourism infrastructure, including tourist lodges, and work with IRCTC to design curated travel packages.

The collaboration also aims to develop local Destination Management Companies and service providers to arrange transport, accommodation, and sightseeing with a special insight into the vibrant culture of Mizoram. This includes the colourful tapestry of festivals where communities come together with feasting, bamboo dances, traditional folk music and ceremonial rituals imbued with meaning. Beyond cultural festivities, Mizoram also offers a rich tourism canvas consisting of emerald valleys, lush green hills, pristine waterfalls and heritage sites. The state has increasingly gained traction in adventure tourism and is recognised for its warm hospitality and peaceful ambience. Together, these elements underscore Mizoram’s immense potential as a destination that celebrates both cultural heritage and sustainable, experiential tourism.

The agreement also aligns with IRCTC’s plan to introduce a special tourist train under its “Discover NE beyond Guwahati” programme, with Aizawl included as a key destination. This service, expected to be launched soon following the commencement of train operations that will focus on budget-friendly tourism and sustainable travel experiences. Together, the improved rail connectivity and the joint tourism promotion initiative are poised to open up Mizoram to wider domestic and international tourist markets, creating new economic opportunities for local communities, with NFR playing a vital part in the process.