Indian Railways (IR) is progressing rapidly on the Jiribam–Imphal railway line, a prestigious project that will finally bring train connectivity to Imphal, the capital of Manipur. The project is under the administrative control of the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) zone.

With the completion of the Bairabi–Sairang rail project, train services have recently started from Aizawl (Sairang). Similarly, once the 110.625 km-long Jiribam–Imphal line is completed, Imphal will be fully connected to the national rail network.

During his visit to Manipur on 13 September, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that rail connectivity in the state has expanded significantly under his government. “The Jiribam–Imphal railway line will soon link the capital city to the national rail network. The government is investing Rs 220 billion in this project,” he said after laying foundation stones for various development works at Churachandpur, Manipur.

So far, Indian Railways has commissioned only a 55.36 km stretch of the Jiribam–Imphal line. Upon completion, the railway will improve connectivity, boost export potential for horticultural and agricultural products, promote tourism, and strengthen the regional economy.

The Jiribam–Imphal railway line includes the construction of 45 tunnels. The tallest pier bridge is being developed over the Ijei River valley near Noney, with a pier height of 141 metres.