The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) reached a significant milestone in freight operations by successfully loading a full freight rake at Mendipathar railway station in Meghalaya. The coal loading operation started on December 28 from Mendipathar to Jalalgarh in Bihar, with 42 body covered wagons loaded within eight hours and 30 minutes, showcasing efficient planning and teamwork. This achievement signifies the first railway freight loadings for Meghalaya, marking a crucial development for the state.
Mendipathar, the sole station in Meghalaya, made its mark on the railway freight map with the first freight unloading on February 4 last year. Since then, the station has seen steady growth in freight unloading operations, handling a total of 29 mini-rakes and 6 full rakes, equivalent to 20.5 full rakes, between February and December 2025. The commencement of freight loading highlights Mendipathar station’s readiness to manage large-scale freight traffic effectively.
Freight operations at Mendipathar are anticipated to boost Meghalaya’s local economy by facilitating the movement of goods in a convenient and cost-effective manner, especially for hilly and remote areas. These operations will benefit regional industries, enhance market access for local commodities, and enable the economical transportation of essential goods, supporting overall economic growth. The NFR, headquartered near Guwahati, operates in the Northeastern states, seven districts of West Bengal, and five districts of Bihar.
