In a significant advancement for the Dimapur – Kohima New Rail Line Project, construction commenced at Portal 1 of Tunnel No. 7, situated in Tsiepama village within the Medziphema circle of Dimapur district, Nagaland. This tunnel, the project’s longest, marks a pivotal phase in the construction of the railway line.
More Details:
The tunnel measures an impressive length of 6,610 metres. To facilitate access to Portal 1 of Tunnel No. 7 in Tsiepama village, a 12 km approach road was meticulously carved through the surrounding hills. Strategically located between the Pherima & Piphema stations, this tunnel is a critical component of the infrastructure.
Key Highlights:
- The entire project spans 82.50 Km, including 2.75 Km in Assam and 79.75 Km in Nagaland, connecting Dhansiri station in Assam to Zubza near Kohima, at an anticipated cost of Rs. 6,663 crores.
- Includes 08 new stations: Dhansiri, Dhansiripar, Shokhuvi, Molvom, Pherima, Piphema, Menguzuma, and Zubza.
- Features 27 major bridges, 148 minor bridges, 5 Road Over Bridges, 15 Road Under Bridges, and 21 tunnels totaling 31 km in length.
- A section of 16.5 km from Dhansiri to Shokhuvi was commissioned in October 2021.
- Passenger train services are now operational from Shokhuvi to Naharlagun in Arunachal Pradesh and Mendipathar in Meghalaya.
Conclusion:
The commencement of the longest tunnel under the Dimapur-Kohima Rail Project marks a pivotal step in Nagaland’s infrastructure development, promising enhanced connectivity, economic growth, and regional integration. This significant undertaking highlights a future of prosperity and advancement for the Northeast region.
Source: Northeast Frontier Railway – Press Release | Image Credit (representational): Pixabay
