Kohima Set to Join National Rail Network as Dimapur–Kohima Rail Project Gains Momentum

The capital of Nagaland, Kohima, is moving closer to joining India’s national rail network as construction on the 78.42-kilometre Dimapur–Kohima railway line continues at a steady pace.

Railway officials said nearly 40% of the project has been completed, with work progressing across the remaining sections. The rail line begins at Dhansiri, an existing station on the Lumding–Tinsukia main route near Dimapur, and extends to Zubza, located about 20 kilometres from Kohima.

Declared a project of national importance, the new rail corridor is expected to provide direct rail connectivity between Kohima and the national capital, significantly improving travel access for the hill state. The project is targeted for completion by December 2029.

Out of the eight stations planned along the route — Dhansiri, Dhansiripar, Shokhuvi, Molvom, Pherima, Piphema, Menguzuma and Zubza — four stations have already been completed. The project also involves extensive engineering work, including 20 tunnels spanning over 31 kilometres, along with 30 major and 150 minor bridges, a majority of which are already in place.

Passenger train services from Shokhuvi marked a historic milestone by making it only the second railway station in Nagaland, while cargo operations at Molvom have further strengthened trade and logistics in the region.

Officials said the rail line will reduce dependence on road transport, offer safer and more affordable travel, and enhance access to education, healthcare, employment and markets within and beyond the state. Improved rail infrastructure is also expected to boost economic activity around stations, generating local jobs and supporting small businesses. Once completed, the Dimapur–Kohima rail link is expected to play a transformative role in integrating Nagaland more closely with the rest of the country.