In a bold move to address infrastructure gaps in Northeast India, a Nagaland Member of Parliament has reignited calls for the long-delayed ₹4,270 crore Nagaland railway project. During the ongoing Parliament session, the MP urged the central government to prioritize this transformative initiative, which aims to improve connectivity across Nagaland.
For years, the project remained stuck in bureaucratic limbo. However, this renewed push signals growing urgency to integrate Nagaland more effectively with the national railway grid.
Why the Nagaland Railway Project Matters
Nagaland remains one of the least connected states in India when it comes to rail infrastructure. The proposed railway line would link key districts to the broader Indian Railways network, reducing travel time, boosting trade, and facilitating tourism.
Project Highlights:
- Estimated cost: ₹4,270 crore
- Proposed route: Dimapur to Kohima and beyond
- Expected benefits: Faster goods movement, better access to healthcare and education, tourism growth
- Employment generation during construction and operation
The MP emphasized that the project is not just about transportation—it’s about regional development and national integration.
“Nagaland deserves the same level of connectivity as other states. This railway line is a lifeline for our people,” the MP stated in Parliament.
Delays and Challenges Facing the Railway Project
Despite its strategic importance, the Nagaland railway project has faced repeated delays due to:
- Land acquisition hurdles
- Environmental clearance issues
- Budgetary constraints
- Lack of political urgency
The MP criticized the slow pace of implementation and called for a dedicated task force to monitor progress and ensure accountability.
“We cannot afford another decade of paperwork. The time to act is now,” the MP added.
Economic and Social Impact of Railway Connectivity
Improved railway connectivity in Nagaland could be a game-changer for the state’s economy. It would:
- Lower transportation costs for local businesses
- Enable faster delivery of essential goods
- Improve access to markets for farmers and artisans
- Encourage investment in hospitality and tourism sectors
For residents, especially in remote areas, the railway line would mean better access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities.
Time for Inclusive Infrastructure
The renewed push for the Nagaland railway project is a reminder that infrastructure must be inclusive and equitable. As Parliament debates national priorities, it’s crucial that Northeast India is not left behind.
Citizens, civil society, and policymakers must rally behind this initiative. The ₹4,270 crore investment is not just about tracks and trains—it’s about opportunity, dignity, and progress for Nagaland.
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