PMO Announces Vande Bharat Express and Major Railway Upgrades for Dibrugarh
The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) has officially confirmed that a new Vande Bharat Express train will be launched from Dibrugarh in the near future, accompanied by a sweeping upgrade of the city's railway infrastructure. This landmark announcement follows a formal letter from Dibrugarh youth leader Parag Dutta to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on December 21, 2025, which passionately advocated for railway development in the region.
Comprehensive Development Roadmap Unveiled
In a detailed reply dated February 9, 2026, the PMO outlined an ambitious development plan for Dibrugarh's railway network. The communication specifies that four major projects are currently underway, designed to transform the city into a modern transportation hub.
The key initiatives include:
- Establishment of a new Vande Bharat Express terminus at Dibrugarh Railway Station, equipped with national-level facilities to handle semi-high-speed services.
- Renovation of the existing Dibrugarh Railway Workshop into a national-level workshop with state-of-the-art machinery and equipment.
- Development of the Dibrugarh Town Railway Station building, featuring national-level passenger amenities to enhance the travel experience.
- Construction of new residential building complexes for railway employees at Gabharupathar, Naliapool Kadamoni, and Chiring Gaon colony in Dibrugarh, addressing long-standing accommodation needs.
Historic Moment for Dibrugarh and Assam
Parag Dutta hailed the government's response as a historic moment for Dibrugarh, emphasizing that the new Vande Bharat Express and infrastructure developments will dramatically improve the city's connectivity and spur economic growth. Railway sources have confirmed that a Vande Bharat Express connecting Dibrugarh and Guwahati is in the planning stages under the Northeast Frontier Railway.
This semi-high-speed train service is expected to significantly reduce travel time between these two key cities in Assam, boosting business and tourism prospects across the region. The introduction of Vande Bharat services represents a quantum leap in railway connectivity for upper Assam, an area that has historically lagged in modern train services compared to other regions.
Broader Economic and Regional Impact
The upgrade of the Dibrugarh Railway Workshop to national standards is projected to create substantial employment opportunities and establish the city as a major railway maintenance hub in the northeast. Simultaneously, the modernization of Dibrugarh Town Railway Station will enhance the daily commute for thousands of passengers, offering improved facilities and a smoother travel experience.
These developments are closely aligned with the Central government's focus on enhancing railway infrastructure in the northeast, aiming to integrate the region more effectively with the rest of India through better connectivity and modern facilities. The initiatives underscore a commitment to addressing regional disparities and fostering sustainable growth in Assam's transportation sector.
