It was a historic occasion for the natives of villlages like Oinamlong, Kambiron, Thingou and Khongsang in Manipur when the first passenger train Agartala-Khongsang Jan Shatabdi Express was flagged off by Hon’ble President of India Droupadi Murmu on 13 Oct 2022. The arrival of the train in this remote location not only brought cheer to the entire people of South East region of Manipur but also silent satisfaction to the personnel of Territorial Army, who have been an integral component of the project which was accorded the status of “National Project” connecting State of Manipur with rest of the Country.
The presently operational 54 Km rail line passes through picturesque valley of Makru and Barak before reaching Khongsang.
It has 19 Tunnel 09 Maj Bridges with the max height of the 105 mtr. This section of Rail line covers 300 Km in seven hours from Agartala to Khonsang (Manipur) where as currently it takes about 19 hours and 600 km by road. The remaining 56 kms to Imphal is expected to be completed by December 2023.
The project was dogged with numerous security problems in the early stages when various militant groups indulged in extortion, kidnappings and indiscriminate killings. Paramilitary forces were initially tasked to contain the cycle of violence in the region but in view of continuing threats to railway personnel and spiralling violence resulting in stoppage of work and mass exodus of contractors, workers and employees, the railways finally approached the Defence Ministry for provision of security. True to its ethos and professionalism the “Terriers” as the Territorial Army is fondly called took upon this daunting challenge.
Their steadfastness, hardwork and determination resulted in creating a safe environment wherein the Railways could work unhindered and achieve success.
The railway authorities have been extremely appreciative of the security cover by the Territorial Army which has enabled them to achieve their goals. Territorial Army continues to be deployed and silently provides a conducive environment to the North East Frontier Railways to complete its balance project from Khongsang to Imphal.
