Construction has commenced on the longest tunnel within the Dimapur-Kohima new rail project. Activities have been initiated at Portal 1 of Tunnel No. 7, situated in Tsiepama village of Medziphema circle in Dimapur district, Nagaland.
This tunnel will hold the distinction of being the lengthiest within the Dimapur-Kohima new rail line project, spanning 6,610 metres. To access Portal 1 of Tunnel No. 7, a 12 km approach road has been constructed through the hills, linking Tsiepama village. Positioned between Pherima and Piphema stations, this tunnel is a crucial component of the project, NF Railway said a press release issued on March 18.
The Dimapur-Kohima new railway line project, stretching over 82.50 kilometres (2.75 km in Assam and 79.75 km in Nagaland), originates from the Dhansiri station in Assam and terminates at Zubza, adjacent to Kohima. This significant undertaking is estimated to cost Rs. 6,663 crores. The project encompasses eight new stations: Dhansiri, Dhansiripar, Shokhuvi, Molvom, Pherima, Piphema, Menguzuma, and Zubza. Additionally, it features 27 major bridges, 148 minor bridges, 5 road over bridges, 15 road under bridges, and 21 tunnels spanning 31 kilometres in total.
Notably, the section spanning 16.5 kilometres from Dhansiri to Shokhuvi was inaugurated in October 2021.
Furthermore, passenger train services have been introduced from Shokhuvi to Naharlagun in Arunachal Pradesh and Mendipathar in Meghalaya.
Upon its completion, the forthcoming rail connectivity project is poised to revolutionize transportation in Nagaland, facilitating the cost-effective movement of essential commodities such as food grains, petroleum products, automobiles, and various construction materials.
