It was a contemporary of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railways or "Toy Train" now listed as a World-heritage.
The 19.47 km railway line would connect Dudhnoi in the Goalpara district of Assam and Mendhipathar in the North Garo Hills district of Meghalaya.
This project of the Indian Railways was approved in 1992-93, but, faced hurdles during its initial days due to opposition from the local population. However, it is slated to be completed by 2013.
Chief Minister Mukul Sangma had earlier said that Meghalaya had missed many opportunities in bringing the railways in the past.
"We have to open up and also change our mindset," Sangma said referring to opposition against the railways from some groups in Meghalaya.
Railways have been opposed in Meghalaya by the influential Khasi Students' Union, claiming it would encourage influx. Projects like the Byrnihat-Shillong project which is slated to be completed by 2018, thus stand threatened.
He said the railways would change the socio-economic landscape of the state and would benefit everyone by providing employment to the youth and giving better markets to farmers.
Sangma said the facility will generate new hope for the people.
He added: "People should not have the perception of alienation and all fear of the people should be allayed," he said.
