Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh held discussions with Ashish Bansal, the newly appointed General Manager of the Northeast Frontier Railway Construction Organisation in Maligaon, on the Jiribam-Imphal rail link at the Chief Minister's Secretariat. Officials reported that the meeting reviewed progress on the line that will connect Imphal with Assam's Silchar and that the Northeast Frontier Railway plans to reach the state capital by the end of 2028. The exchange focused on timelines, land and logistical support needed to accelerate work. The Chief Minister assured that the state government would provide all possible assistance to ensure early completion and expressed support for measures to resolve local constraints. Officials described the project as critical for regional integration and economic access for remote areas of Manipur. The administration underlined coordination with central agencies to synchronise resources and clearances. Work on the Noney Bridge continues; the structure stands at 141 metres high and extends 703 metres and is being built at a cost of Rs six and a half billion (Rs 6.5 bn). The bridge forms part of the Rs 218.85 billion (Rs 218.85 bn) Jiribam-Imphal railway line and is expected to be completed by March 2026, while the entire line is slated for completion by December 2028. Engineers described the bridge as an engineering landmark intended to strengthen connectivity across challenging terrain. The project is projected to cut travel time between Jiribam and Imphal to two and a half hours, improving access for passengers and freight and enhancing economic opportunities across the region. On February 27, 2026, the Union Minister of State for Heavy Industries and Steel inspected the Noney site, accompanied by the local district administration, according to officials. Authorities said the scheme will firmly place Manipur on India's railway map and transform regional accessibility. The state government reiterated commitment to facilitate land acquisition, security arrangements and local engagement to keep work on schedule. Officials indicated that continued cooperation between state and central agencies will be essential to meet the remaining milestones.