More than 22,000 Inner Line Permits (ILPs) have been issued to visitors at Mizoram’s Sairang railway station since the inauguration of the Bairabi–Sairang railway line in September last year, officials said. The Inner Line Permit is a mandatory document for Indian citizens seeking entry into protected areas such as Mizoram. The system operates under the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BEFR), 1873, which was notified during British rule in 1875. According to an official stationed at the ILP counter at Sairang railway station, a total of 20,914 permits were issued between September 13, 2025, and December 31, 2025, following the launch of rail services. Between January 1 and January 8 this year, another 1,517 ILPs were issued, taking the total count to 22,431. “On an average, around 100 to 200 ILPs are issued with each train arrival. Generally, two trains reach the station every day,” the official said.
Police officials noted that tourists formed the bulk of visitors during October and November, while migrant workers and traders accounted for most arrivals in December. Visitors have travelled to Mizoram from various parts of the country, including Delhi, West Bengal and several southern states, with the highest number coming from neighboring Assam. Authorities said several violations have been detected, including attempts to bypass ILP checks. Beggars found entering the state without valid permits were immediately sent back to their places of origin, officials added.
Meanwhile, police personnel at Sairang station acknowledged facing a severe manpower shortage. In the absence of a formally notified Government Railway Police (GRP) unit, local police are currently managing GRP-related duties along with maintaining law and order and conducting ILP verification.
“Although the GRP has not yet been officially notified, we are handling all related responsibilities, including traffic and parking management. The situation becomes particularly challenging when 1,500 to 2,000 passengers arrive simultaneously,” said an officer, requesting anonymity.
Currently, only 20 police personnel are posted at the station. They often work late into the night due to train delays and resume duty early in the morning. The officer added that no additional allowance is provided for performing GRP-related duties.
