The Commissioner of Railway Safety, Northeast Frontier Circle, has authorised train operations on the newly laid 15.7 kilometre broad-gauge line between Murkongselek (Assam) and Sille (Arunachal Pradesh) after successful inspection and speed trials. Trains can now operate at a maximum permissible speed of 110 kilometres per hour.

Project Overview

• Part of the 26.15 kilometre Murkongselek–Pasighat new railway line project.
  
• Developed by Northeast Frontier Railway.
  
• Includes three new stations: Sille, Labo and Pasighat.
  
• Features 27 major bridges, reflecting challenging terrain.
  

Significance

• Enhances connectivity between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.
  
• Extends long-distance rail access to Pasighat via the Rangiya–Murkongselek route and the Bogibeel Bridge.
  
• Reduces travel time and transportation costs.
  
• Facilitates freight movement and reliable supply of essential commodities.
  
• Supports tourism and economic development in the region.
  

Background Context

• Arunachal Pradesh was first connected to India’s broad-gauge railway network in 2014 through the Harmuti–Naharlagun line. 
• The current expansion continues the Centre’s focus on strategic connectivity in border States, aligning with infrastructure development under the Act East Policy and national integration goals.
• The project reflects the importance of railways in strengthening economic growth and strategic mobility in the Northeast.

Exam Hook: 

With reference to the Murkongselek–Pasighat railway project, consider the following statements:

1. It connects Assam with Arunachal Pradesh through a broad-gauge line.
   
2. The line includes newly developed stations such as Sille and Pasighat.
   
3. Arunachal Pradesh was connected to India’s broad-gauge network for the first time in 2005.
   

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only

One-line wrap: The Murkongselek–Sille rail approval marks another milestone in integrating Arunachal Pradesh more closely with the national railway network.

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