Northeast gets first MEMU electric train, linking Tripura to Assam

Guwahati: The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) introduced the first-ever Mainline Electric Multiple Unit (MEMU) electric train service in the Northeast, connecting Tripura with southern Assam.

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha said the launch marked a new chapter in the state's railway history with the commencement of electric train services.

Equipped with modern passenger amenities, the MEMU train has a carrying capacity of 3,600 passengers and connects Agartala with Karimganj in neighbouring Assam. The launch also marks the introduction of the first MEMU train service in the Northeastern region under the Northeast Frontier Railway.


Saha said the initiative has been taken to provide faster, safer and more comfortable travel in tune with the demands of modern times.

He said the state-of-the-art MEMU service would make daily commuting easier, more convenient and time-efficient for thousands of passengers while offering a modern, safe and environmentally friendly mode of transport.

The Chief Minister thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and all those associated with the project for introducing the modern rail service.

"Tripura has become the first state in the Northeast to receive this MEMU train service. The new service will provide a comfortable journey for passengers while strengthening regional rail connectivity," Saha said.

The Agartala-Karimganj MEMU train will operate six days a week, except Sundays, with regular commercial services beginning from July 6.

NFR Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) Kapinjal Kishore Sharma said the train, which had earlier been operating as a Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU), has now been successfully upgraded to a Mainline Electric Multiple Unit (MEMU), marking a major technological advancement following the electrification of the route.

He said the historic development represents another significant milestone in NFR's continued efforts towards railway modernisation, sustainable transportation and enhanced passenger convenience following the rapid electrification of railway routes across the region.

Sharma described the introduction of the first MEMU service in Tripura and the Northeast as a landmark achievement in NFR's mission to provide faster, cleaner and more efficient rail connectivity.

The NFR CPRO said the new Agartala-Karimganj-Agartala MEMU service would greatly benefit daily commuters, students, office-goers, traders and tourists by providing a reliable, comfortable and eco-friendly mode of transportation between Tripura and adjoining areas of Assam.

He said the improved rail connectivity would facilitate the easier movement of people, strengthen social and economic ties between neighbouring states, and promote regional development.

The new service would also support local commerce by enabling convenient travel for small business owners and workers while encouraging greater use of rail transport over road travel, Sharma added.

"As the first MEMU train service in Tripura and the entire Northeast, this pioneering initiative reflects NFR's vision of transforming rail infrastructure, enhancing passenger experience and supporting the region's overall development through modern, sustainable and customer-centric railway services," the CPRO said.