The New Year 2026 has opened on an encouraging note for rail commuters in Assam’s Barak Valley with the Silchar–Agartala–Silchar Express now operating with modern LHB (Linke Hofmann Busch) coaches. The train (Nos. 15664/15663), which earlier ran with older ICF coaches, began services with the upgraded rake from Wednesday, marking a key improvement in passenger travel standards.
The revamped train was ceremonially flagged off at Silchar Railway Station in the presence of Rajya Sabha MP Kanad Purkayastha, Silchar MP Parimal Suklabaidya, Silchar MLA Dipayan Chakraborty, along with BJP leaders and senior railway officials.
Calling the upgrade a “promising start to the New Year,” Purkayastha said the introduction of LHB coaches would substantially improve safety, riding comfort and onboard facilities for passengers. He added that after the recent LHB conversion of the Silchar–Kanchanjungha Express, the Rangiya–Silchar Express is also scheduled to receive similar coaches next month.
The Rajya Sabha MP expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for responding to long-pending passenger concerns linked to ageing rolling stock. He also urged travellers to take collective responsibility in maintaining the upgraded facilities.
Purkayastha further revealed that efforts are underway to extend Vande Bharat services to Silchar. However, he noted that space limitations at the existing railway station remain a challenge. To address future needs, alternative sites—including the Netaji Nagar area—are being considered for a new station, keeping upcoming projects like the proposed Lanka–Moinarbond rail line in mind.
Silchar MP Parimal Suklabaidya also welcomed the LHB upgrade, expressing optimism that it would pave the way for more railway infrastructure improvements across southern Assam in the near future.
