The India-Nepal Railway Connectivity Project is a collaborative initiative between India and Nepal aimed at enhancing rail connectivity between the two neighboring countries. The project is designed to facilitate trade, tourism, and regional integration by improving cross-border transportation infrastructure.[1] Several railway links are planned or under development under this initiative, including the Jaynagar–Bardibas Railway, Raxaul–Kathmandu Railway, Jogbani–Biratnagar Railway, and New Jalpaiguri–Kakarbhitta Railway.[2][3]
Historically, India and Nepal shared multiple railway links under the India Nepal Friendship Treaty, some operational since the early 20th century. However, many of these routes became inactive over time. In recent years, both governments have prioritized the revival and expansion of cross-border railways to enhance economic and social ties.[5] However, after India's independence and Nepal's transition from monarchy to democracy, several of these routes became inactive or discontinued due to infrastructure decay and policy changes.
Recognizing the importance of modernizing rail connectivity, India and Nepal signed a memorandum of understanding in 2018 to revive and expand cross-border railway links.[6]
The project is being developed in multiple phases:
Phase 1 (Jaynagar–Kurtha, 34 km) was inaugurated in 2022
Phase 2 (Kurtha–Bijalpura, 17 km) is under development
Phase 3 (Bijalpura–Bardibas, 17 km) is planned for future expansion
Raxaul–Kathmandu railway line
The Raxaul–Kathmandu railway[13] is a proposed cross-border rail project connecting Raxaul (Bihar, India) with Kathmandu (Nepal). India and Nepal signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in 2018 for feasibility studies, with the project expected to significantly reduce travel time between the two cities.[14]
Jogbani–Biratnagar railway line
The Jogbani–Biratnagar railway line[15] is another key railway link aimed at boosting trade and passenger connectivity.
Phase 1 (8 km from Jogbani to Biratnagar) is under construction
Phase 2 (further expansion towards Nepal's interior regions) is planned
New Jalpaiguri–Kakarbhitta railway line
The New Jalpaiguri–Kakarbhitta railway line[16] is a proposed railway project to link New Jalpaiguri (West Bengal, India) with Kakarbhitta (Nepal). It aims to enhance connectivity between eastern Nepal and India's northeastern states.
