CRS authorised train operations in the newly constructed Murkongselek–Sille section of the Murkongselek–Pasighat New Rail Project
· Free Press Journal
The Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS), Northeast Frontier Circle, Sumeet Singhal has authorized operation of trains in the Murkongselek – Sille (15.70 Km) newly laid BG line section on 12th & 13th February, 2026. After successful inspection and speed trials, the CRS has approved train operations on the route at a maximum permissible speed of 110 KMPH, paving the way for enhanced connectivity in the region.
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This section is a part of the ongoing 26.15 km long new rail line project between Murkongselek and Pasighat, a key infrastructure initiative aimed at further strengthening rail connectivity to Arunachal Pradesh. The 26.15 km long Murkongselek – Pasighat new railway line runs from Murkongselek in Assam to Pasighat in Arunachal Pradesh. This newly laid line will be helpful for carrying more freight and passenger traffic through this route in the near future. The project features three newly developed stations viz Sille, Labo and Pasighat along with 27 major bridges.
The capital of Arunachal Pradesh was connected to the national broad-gauge railway network with the commissioning of a new line from Harmuti to the Naharlagun railway station on 29th March 2014. This milestone brought the capital city of Arunachal Pradesh, Itanagar onto India’s broad-gauge map for the first time. Passenger services on the Harmuti – Naharlagun route commenced on 07th April 2014, marking a major boost in regional connectivity. Further strengthening this link, the Naharlagun–New Delhi AC Express was introduced on 22nd February 2015, providing Arunachal Pradesh with its first direct rail connection to the national capital.
The Murkongselek – Pasighat New Railway Line Project will significantly enhance connectivity between Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and the rest of the country. Once completed, the new line will extend long-distance rail connectivity up to Pasighat through the Rangiya – Murkongselek route and via the Bogibeel Bridge, linking the region more efficiently with major destinations. This improved rail network will help reduce travel time and transportation costs for both passengers and goods, while ensuring a more reliable and uninterrupted supply of essential commodities. It will also enhance mobility and overall convenience for residents by providing long-distance rail access directly to local hubs such as Rangiya and Murkongselek. Moreover, better connectivity is expected to encourage the growth of small-scale industries, promote regional trade and boost economic development by supporting tourism and helping position Arunachal Pradesh as an emerging tourism hub.