DIMAPUR, NOV 14 (NPN): Dimapur-Kohima New Railway Line Project has achieved 50% physical progress, with construction targeted for completion by December 2029, advisor to airway and railway, A Pongshi Phom said during an inspection of the project on November 14.
The inspection team comprised officials from the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) and representatives of the state government. It visited project sites at Zubza, Piphema, Pherima and Molvom to assess construction progress, including station sites, tunnels, bridges and track installation locations.
The state government team included Thsuvisie Phoji, Additional Secretary, Aircell, and Myingthungo Ababe Ezung, OSD, Aircell, transport department. NFR officials included deputy chief engineer Harji Mal Meena.
Speaking to the media, Phom said the project had recorded 45.98% financial progress. Expenditure up to October 31, 2026, stood at Rs. 7,176.48 crore.
Sanctioned in May 2007, the 78.42-km railway line began construction in 2015-16. The project includes 20 tunnels, of which eight have been completed. The longest tunnel measures 6.62 km. Emergency escape or auxiliary tunnels are also being constructed to provide alternative access during emergencies.
Of the 29 major bridges planned, 15 have been completed. Work on 138 of the 151 minor bridges has also been completed. The longest bridge, Bridge No. 154, measures 551.60 metres.
The team also inspected a major bridge under construction, with officials highlighting the engineering challenges posed by Nagaland’s difficult terrain, particularly in the construction of tunnels and bridges.
Meanwhile, the proposed extension from Zubza towards Imphal in Manipur is being explored. Survey work and consultations with consultants are underway for the future connectivity plan.
Dimapur-Kohima railway line is expected to improve connectivity, transportation and economic opportunities in Nagaland and the wider Northeast.
Sunday, November 15, 2026