More than 22,000 Inner Line Permits (ILPs) have been issued to visitors at Mizoram’s Sairang railway station since the introduction of the Bairabi–Sairang railway line in September 2025. The Inner Line Permit is essential for Indian citizens wishing to access protected areas like Mizoram, governed by the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BEFR) of 1873, a remnant from British colonial administration.
As reported by the ILP counter at Sairang, from the commencement of rail services on September 13, 2025, to December 31, 2025, a total of 20,914 ILPs were distributed. An additional 1,517 permits were issued between January 1 and January 8, 2026, culminating in a tally of 22,431. Each train arrival generally contributes to the issuance of about 100 to 200 ILPs, with two trains reaching the station daily.
The demographic of visitors has varied, with tourists dominating during October and November and a shift towards migrant workers and traders in December. Notably, travelers hail from diverse regions across India, including Delhi, West Bengal, and various southern states, with the majority originating from Assam.
The authorities have reported multiple violations related to ILP regulations, including attempts by individuals to bypass the required checks. Instances of beggars entering the state without legitimized permits led to immediate repatriation to their home regions.
Local police at Sairang station are currently shouldering the responsibilities of the Government Railway Police (GRP) due to the absence of an officially sanctioned unit. This situation burdens the local police force, who also maintain public order and verify ILPs. They expressed challenges in coping with the high volume of passengers during peak times when 1,500 to 2,000 individuals may arrive simultaneously. Presently, only 20 police personnel are stationed at Sairang, working extended hours, often late at night due to delays and beginning again at dawn, with no additional compensation for GRP duties undertaken.
