NEW DELHI, AUG 21 (PTI): From introducing new train services and special trains to expanding freight terminals and sending its first container train to Nepal, the Northeast Frontier Railway has recorded a series of connectivity milestones so far this year.
The railway introduced 14 pairs of new train services and operated 674 special train trips, including 92 trips serving flood-affected areas, according to an NFR press note. “So far in 2026, 14 pairs of new train services have been introduced, including Vande Bharat Sleeper, Amrit Bharat and Mail/Express trains. NFR operated a total of 674 special train trips, 23 per cent higher than during the corresponding period last year, including 92 trips serving flood-affected areas. The first MEMU service between Agartala and Karimganj was also introduced in July 2026,” it said.
Passenger amenities have also been strengthened, with 230 Passenger Reservation System (PRS) locations converted to a Next Generation Graphical User Interface-based PRS, it said.
New passenger facilities have been introduced at New Jalpaiguri and Guwahati, while pantry services are now available on 49 trains. Integrated Passenger Information Systems have been installed at eight stations, along with 10 new lifts at four stations, according to NFR. NFR’s Eat Right certification has also increased to 25 stations and four campuses, officials said. Additional coaches were attached to regular and special trains to meet increased passenger demand, they added.
On the freight front, NFR commissioned seven new freight terminals, including Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals at Habaipur and Baihata, it said.
“Freight loading increased by 7 per cent during April-July 2026, with cement and dolomite loading registering growth of 160 per cent and 28.4 per cent, respectively,” the NFR said.
“The first-ever container train from India reached Nepal in July 2026, marking a significant milestone in regional freight connectivity.”
Track-linking work between Jogighopa Railway Station Yard and the Jogighopa Multi-Modal Logistics Park (MMLP) has also been completed, paving the way for seamless rail connectivity with the MMLP and more efficient freight movement, it said.
“These initiatives reaffirm NFR’s commitment to enhancing passenger services, operational efficiency, connectivity and freight transportation across the Northeast,” officials said.
