Murkongselek-Pasighat Rail Project Hits 45% Completion

06 May 2025 CW Team

The Murkongselek–Pasighat new railway line, a flagship project under Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), has reached 45 per cent physical progress as of March 31, 2025, with work valued at approximately Rs 12.52 billion. Designed to enhance rail connectivity between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, the 26.15-kilometre line is being executed in two distinct phases.

Phase I, covering the Murkongselek–Sille segment (15.6 km), is close to completing its earthwork, with 1.375 million cubic meters finished out of the targeted 1.416 million. Construction is also well underway on 18 major and 35 minor bridges, while ballast supply and track laying are set to begin soon. The Murkongselek station building is nearing completion.

In Phase II (Sille–Pasighat, 10.55 km), 0.355 million cubic meters of earthwork has been completed out of the planned 0.685 million, with bridge building and casting ongoing. Land acquisition for a road overbridge at Pasighat Yard is being fast-tracked with local support.

The project has continued steadily despite challenges like prolonged monsoon conditions and local disruptions. During a recent site visit, the NFR General Manager (Construction) directed officials to maintain progress and ensure high construction standards.

Once operational, the new line is expected to spur economic development, promote tourism, and strengthen national integration by connecting remote border areas. The NFR reaffirmed its commitment to completing the project despite logistical and environmental challenges.

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