Arunachal: Centre introduces Shatabdi Express to ease travel

In a bid to increase connectivity in the northeastern region, the Centre recently introduced the Shatabdi Express train in Naharlagun, Arunachal Pradesh.

The move is a major boost for transport in Northeast. Special trains to cater to the northeastern tourism were announced.

Union Minister for Railways Suresh Prabhu flagged off the train from Guwahati. The flagging off ceremony was attended by Minister of State for Railways Rajen Gohain along with Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju and Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh Pema Khandu and his Council of Ministers in Arunachal.

Gohain emphasized on community tourism in the state and the importance of infrastructure in promoting tourism in the region and credited the railway lines to play a vital role in promoting tourism in the northeastern states.

Prabhu also inaugurated the commencement of the railway electrification work between Raninagar, Jalpaiguri and Guwahati and commissioned the 700KWp solar power plant at Guwahati Railway Station.

The first class and second class waiting hall at Harmuti Railway Station and the RO water plant, digital chart display system at New Tinsukia Station were also unveiled.

The foundation stone was also laid for Murkong Selek-Pasighat New broad Gauge Line along with commencement of survey of Seven new broad gauge lines between Lekhapani- Kharsang, Itakhola-Seijosa, Dumduma-Namsai-Vakaro,Dangri-Roing, Deomali-Naharkatia, Khardang-Miao-Deban, Tinsukia-Pasighat via Simaluguri, Kanubari in Arunachal Pradesh.