Nagaland's Historic Rail Link: Dimapur-Zubza Project Advances Toward 2029 Deadline
In a significant boost to Northeast India's infrastructure, the ambitious Dimapur–Zubza railway line project is making steady progress with Indian Railways targeting completion by 2029. This crucial rail link, falling under the administrative control of the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) zone, represents a transformative development for Nagaland's transportation landscape.
Project Overview and Strategic Importance
The 78.42-kilometer Dimapur-Kohima railway line traverses through multiple districts, including Karbi Anglong in Assam and Chumukedima and Kohima in Nagaland. This project holds immense strategic significance as it will mark the first-ever rail connection for Nagaland's capital city, Kohima, to the national railway network. The enhanced connectivity is expected to revolutionize travel and commerce in the region.
Engineering Marvel: Tunnels, Bridges, and Stations
The alignment presents substantial engineering challenges, featuring 20 tunnels spanning a total length of 31,169 meters and 27 major bridges complemented by 149 minor bridges. Remarkably, significant portions of these critical structures have already been completed. The project encompasses eight stations along its route:
- Dhansiri
- Dhansiripar
- Shokhuvi
- Molvom
- Pherima
- Piphema
- Menguzuma
- Zubza
Three stations—Dhansiri, Shokhuvi, and Molvom—have been fully completed, with Molvom station emerging as Nagaland's third major railway hub and commencing freight operations in September 2025.
Phased Progress and Current Status
The Dimapur-Kohima rail project is being executed in carefully planned phases. To date, 31.14 kilometers of the line have been commissioned, representing substantial progress toward the ultimate goal. The phased commissioning includes:
- The Dhansiri–Shokhuvi section (16.5 km) commissioned in October 2021
- The Shokhuvi–Molvom section (14.64 km) commissioned in March 2025
Currently, regular train services operate from Shokhuvi station, connecting passengers to Guwahati in Assam and Naharlagun in Arunachal Pradesh. This existing service already provides smoother, safer, and more reliable travel options for residents and visitors alike.
Transformative Impact on Nagaland and Northeast Region
Upon completion, the Dimapur-Kohima railway line is poised to deliver multifaceted benefits to Nagaland and the broader Northeast region:
- Improved accessibility to education, healthcare facilities, employment opportunities, and commercial markets
- Reduced dependence on road transport through comfortable, affordable, and time-efficient rail alternatives
- Enhanced regional connectivity across Nagaland and neighboring states in Northeast India
- Economic stimulation through improved freight movement and tourism potential
This railway project represents more than just transportation infrastructure—it symbolizes a new era of connectivity and development for a region long awaiting enhanced rail access. As construction continues toward the 2029 target, the Dimapur-Zubza line stands as a testament to India's commitment to strengthening Northeast connectivity through strategic rail expansion.
