over-4-100-ilps-issued-since-mizoram-rail-line-launch

A surge in rail connectivity has transformed travel to Mizoram, with over 4,100 Inner Line Permits (ILPs) issued at railway stations across the state since the launch of the Bairabi–Sairang line on September 13, police officials said on October 9.

 

Aizawl Additional Superintendent of Police Lalringliana Pachuau reported that 4,064 permits were issued from four counters at Sairang railway station near the state capital, where 14 policemen manage the process. Kolasib Superintendent of Police David H. Lalthangliana added that 38 ILPs were issued across four railway stations within Kolasib district.

 

The figures were discussed during a review meeting chaired by Home Minister K. Sapdanga to assess the impact of the new rail link on ILP issuance and related security concerns. Officials noted a 30–40 per cent decline in permits issued at the Vairengte check-gate in Kolasib, along with a similar drop in the number of maxicabs operating between Mizoram and neighbouring states, following the launch of train services connecting Aizawl with Delhi, Kolkata, and Guwahati.

 

Also read: Mizoram's capital connected by rail for the first time

 

The Inner Line Permit, mandated under the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation of 1873, is required for Indian citizens to enter protected areas such as Mizoram. Non-residents must obtain the permit before entry to travel legally in these zones.

 

Meanwhile, the Mizo Zirlai Pawl (MZP), the state’s apex student body, raised concerns over what it described as a “mismatch between the number of visitors and ILPs issued.” MZP president C. Lalremruata said their inspection at Sairang railway station on Thursday revealed “several visitors managed to slip out without securing ILPs.”

 

Lalremruata also cited insufficient manpower at ILP counters and the absence of excise officials to monitor the illegal import of alcohol into the dry state. He urged the government to strengthen enforcement at railway stations to prevent illegal entry and smuggling.

 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 51.38-km Bairabi–Sairang railway line on September 13, marking Mizoram’s first rail link to the national capital through the newly launched Rajdhani Express, alongside new connections to Kolkata and Guwahati, significantly enhancing regional accessibility.