The tourism sector in Assam’s hill district of Dima Hasao is bracing for a setback following Indian Railways’ decision to permanently cancel the Guwahati–Badarpur–Guwahati Vistadome Express, a scenic train service that had become a major attraction for visitors to Haflong and surrounding areas.

According to an official notification issued by the Railways, the service will be withdrawn with effect from January 1, 2026. The move is expected to have a direct impact on tourist inflow, local businesses, and overall travel connectivity in the region.

The Vistadome Express had emerged as a unique draw for tourists exploring Dima Hasao, offering panoramic views of lush hills, forests, and valleys along the route. Running twice a week on Wednesdays and Saturdays, the train was the only dedicated tourist rail service operating between Guwahati and Badarpur via Haflong.

For many travellers, the scenic journey itself was a major highlight, contributing significantly to Haflong’s growing reputation as a tourism destination in the Northeast.

Railway authorities have stated that following the cancellation of the service, the Vistadome coaches will be attached to the Sairang–Guwahati Express. However, tourism stakeholders argue that this change does little to compensate for the loss of a dedicated tourist-oriented service that was tailored to showcase the region’s natural beauty.

Concerns from tourism stakeholders

Local tourism operators, hoteliers, and business owners have expressed strong concern over the decision, calling it a major blow to the district’s tourism-driven economy. They point out that tourist arrivals in Dima Hasao had steadily increased since the introduction of the Vistadome service, benefiting homestays, transport providers, guides, and small businesses.

Stakeholders have urged Indian Railways and the government to reconsider the decision or introduce an alternative tourist-friendly train service to maintain connectivity and sustain tourism in the hill district.

The Vistadome coaches were introduced in the region with the launch of the Guwahati–New Haflong Vistadome Tourist Special Train on August 28, 2021. The initiative, the first of its kind under the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), was aimed at promoting tourism in Dima Hasao and showcasing the scenic rail routes of the Northeast.

A premium scenic experience

Equipped with large glass windows, observation lounges, rotational seating, Wi-Fi connectivity, and digital entertainment systems, the Vistadome coaches offered passengers an immersive and premium travel experience. The service quickly gained popularity among domestic tourists seeking scenic rail journeys through Assam and the broader Northeast.

With the cancellation set to take effect in 2026, stakeholders fear that the absence of the Vistadome Express could slow the tourism momentum built over the past few years, unless alternative measures are introduced to fill the gap.

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