According to a report in The Assam Tribune, the Indian Railways has allocated Rs 104.4 billion (bn) to enhance railway infrastructure in the Northeast as part of the Rs 2,650 bn Union Budget 2025-26 provision. This investment is over five times the Rs 21.22 bn annual average from 2009-2014.

The increased budget will support new railway lines, track renewals, traffic facilities, road safety works, bridge development, and customer amenities. Since 2014, 1,824 km of new railway tracks have been laid, exceeding Sri Lanka’s total rail network. Additionally, 478 new flyovers and underpasses have been built to improve connectivity, and the Kavach safety system has been implemented on 1,189 route km.

Under the Amrit Bharat Stations Scheme, 92 railway stations will be upgraded with modern facilities. The electrification of all railway tracks under the Northeast Frontier Railway is set for completion by December 2025, while the Bhairabi-Sairang railway project in Mizoram is expected to be ready by July 2025.

The ministry also outlined broader expansion plans, including 200 new Vande Bharat trains, 100 Amrit Bharat trains, and 50 Namo Bharat rapid rail services. Additionally, 1,000 new flyovers and underpasses will be built nationwide to enhance safety and efficiency.