The scenic rail route connecting Mizoram’s Sairang to Assam’s Barak Valley is currently facing significant operational challenges. Following a major track collapse near New Harangajao station, the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has been forced to reschedule and cancel several train services on the critical Lumding-Badarpur hill section. While restoration efforts are ongoing, passengers are advised to stay updated on their travel status.
- Track collapse incident: Damage occurred to Line-1 and Line-2 near New Harangajao station.
- Current status: Operations are currently managed via Line-3 under strict safety protocols.
- Rescheduled trains: Train No. 15610 and Train No. 15609 were rescheduled on August 4, 2026.
- Ongoing work: Engineering teams are using boulders and wire mesh to stabilize the slopes.
Impact on Passenger Services
On August 3, 2026, the NFR announced that the sinking of tracks necessitated immediate changes to the train schedule to ensure passenger safety. For services commencing on August 4, 2026, the Train No. 15610 Sairang-Guwahati Express was rescheduled to depart at 9:30 PM. Similarly, the Train No. 15609 Guwahati-Sairang Express was moved to an 11:30 PM departure time. These adjustments are part of a broader effort to manage traffic flow while engineers work to secure the affected sections of the hill route.
Restoration Challenges and Safety Measures
Restoring the Lumding-Badarpur section is a complex task due to the region’s challenging topography. The NFR engineering teams are currently focused on placing large boulders and wire mesh along the track bed. This technique is designed to prevent further soil erosion and stabilize the vulnerable slopes that have been compromised by recent weather conditions.
Authorities have noted that persistent landslides and adverse weather continue to complicate the repair process. Despite these obstacles, Indian Railways is collaborating with local teams to accelerate the stabilization of the tracks. The primary objective remains the resumption of full, normal operations while maintaining the highest safety standards for all passengers traversing this picturesque yet fragile mountainous terrain. Travelers are encouraged to check the official NFR website or contact station authorities before heading out for their journey.