New Broad Gauge Line to Strengthen Links with Guwahati
Train operations have been officially approved on the 15.70 km Murkongselek–Sille newly laid broad gauge line section after successful inspection and speed trials by Sumeet Singhal, Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS), Northeast Frontier Circle.
The maximum permissible speed on this section has been fixed at 110 km per hour. The approval marks a significant step in the ongoing 26.15 km Murkongselek–Pasighat railway line project connecting Assam to Arunachal Pradesh.
The Commissioner of Railway Safety has approved train operations on the 15.70 km Murkongselek–Sille broad gauge section at a maximum speed of 110 kmph. The line is part of the 26.15 km Murkongselek–Pasighat rail project linking Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, strengthening connectivity with Guwahati and the rest of India.
Part of the Larger Murkongselek–Pasighat Project
The Murkongselek–Pasighat railway line stretches from Murkongselek in Assam to Pasighat in Arunachal Pradesh.
Key highlights of the project include:
- Total length: 26.15 km
- Newly developed stations: Sille, Labo, and Pasighat
- Construction of 27 major bridges
- Broad gauge connectivity
Once fully operational, the line will extend long-distance rail access up to Pasighat.
What This Means for Guwahati
Although the section lies in eastern Assam, the development has direct implications for Guwahati, which serves as the primary railway and administrative hub of the Northeast.
With the new link, long-distance connectivity will be extended to Pasighat via:
- Rangiya–Murkongselek route
- Bogibeel Bridge
This improved network is expected to:
- Enhance passenger movement to and from Guwahati
- Facilitate smoother freight transport
- Reduce travel time and logistics costs
- Improve supply chain reliability for essential commodities
For traders and transport operators in Guwahati, better rail integration could streamline cargo movement across Upper Assam and into Arunachal Pradesh.
Economic and Strategic Significance
Enhanced rail connectivity often contributes to:
- Growth of small-scale industries
- Expansion of regional trade
- Boost to tourism in Arunachal Pradesh
- Greater economic integration within the Northeast
Guwahati, being the commercial gateway of the region, is likely to benefit from increased passenger and freight traffic routed through its network
What Happens Next?
With operations approved for the Murkongselek–Sille section, further expansion toward Pasighat is expected to progress as per project timelines.
Railway authorities are expected to announce operational schedules and services in due course.
The development marks another step in strengthening Assam’s rail infrastructure and reinforcing Guwahati’s role as a central connectivity node in the Northeast.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum speed allowed on the Murkongselek–Sille section?
The Commissioner of Railway Safety has approved operations at a maximum permissible speed of 110 km per hour.
How does this project impact Guwahati?
The new line improves regional connectivity, which will enhance passenger and freight movement through Guwahati’s railway network.
