Manipur Governor visits world’s tallest railway bridge in Noney

Ajay Kumar Bhalla, the Governor of Manipur, visited the construction site of what is poised to become the world’s tallest railway pier bridge, located in Noney district. The bridge—rising about 141 metres above the ground—is part of the 111-km long Jiribam–Imphal railway line and is expected to be completed within the current financial year. It will surpass the previous record holder (the 139 metre-high Mala-Rijeka viaduct in Montenegro) and spans roughly 555 metres in length across the Ijei River near Khumji village.

Connectivity and integration

The bridge is part of the Jiribam–Imphal railway line, declared a national project back in 2008.   That means this isn’t just rail tracks laid for today—it’s about linking remote hilly districts with the wider Indian rail network, boosting movement of goods, people, and opportunity. When tracks reach inaccessible places, whole communities get connected—jobs, education, health care become easier to reach.

Engineering landmark

Rising 141 metres, this pier bridge will claim the global record, rendering it a landmark for Indian engineering and inspiring for local youth.   Think of it: a giant thread of steel and concrete spanning hills and valleys, linking what seemed unreachable. That’s powerful.

Regional boost

For Manipur, especially districts like Noney (70 km west of Imphal) which face geographic challenges, this infrastructure is a lifeline. Officials describe the corridor as a “critical lifeline for the region”.   When rail comes, trade opportunities expand, tourism potential increases, remote villages gain access. The Governor’s visit signals high-level commitment.

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## WHAT THE GOVERNOR SAW AND HEARD

During his visit:

• Governor Bhalla was accompanied by senior railway engineers and district officials, and he received a detailed briefing on construction status.  

• He visited the site of the bridge over the Ijei River, near Khumji village in Noney district.  

• He was told that the bridge is scheduled for completion within the current financial year — a timeframe many large infrastructure projects struggle to meet.  

• At the Noney district headquarters he reviewed development initiatives, visited local stalls showcasing agriculture, horticulture, handicrafts, and stressed “timely execution of key projects”.  

Frequently Asked Questions (5 Unique FAQs)

Q1: Where exactly is the world’s tallest railway pier bridge being built?

It is being constructed in Noney district of Manipur, near Khumji village, over the Ijei River, approximately 70 km west of Imphal.  

Q2: How tall is the bridge and what record will it hold?

The bridge is approximately 141 metres above the ground, and will surpass the 139-metre Mala-Rijeka viaduct in Montenegro to become the tallest railway pier bridge in the world.  

Q3: Which railway line is this bridge part of and why is it important?

It is part of the 111-km Jiribam–Imphal railway line, declared a national project in 2008, aimed at connecting Manipur’s capital region to the national rail network, improving connectivity, trade and mobility in remote Northeastern India.  

Q4: When is the bridge expected to be completed?

Officials told Governor Bhalla during his visit that the bridge is on track for completion within the current financial year.  

Q5: What benefits will the bridge bring to local communities and the region?

The bridge will bring improved connectivity and mobility, economic opportunities (trade, tourism, jobs), better access to services (health, education), and uplift remote communities in Manipur. It also serves as an engineering landmark and enhances regional integration.