The recent completion of the first stretch of the rail link between Nepal and India, known as the Jainagar-Bijalpura-Bardibas railway project, has brought attention to the evolving transportation infrastructure of the region. This service, which is set to resume, is Nepal’s first-ever broad gauge passenger railway.
A Historical Perspective
Dating back to the early 20th century, the rail link between the two nations has a rich history. In 1937, the British colonial regime established a narrow gauge line primarily utilized for the transportation of logs from Nepal to India. The rail line later became a popular passenger route. However, this service was discontinued in 2014 to allow for the conversion to a broad gauge.
The Revamped Project
This refurbished project consists of two main stretches. The first is a 34-km line linking Bihar’s Jainagar in India with Nepal’s Kurtha, including Janakpur Dham, a renowned Hindu pilgrimage city in Nepal. The second section, a 17-km railway line from Kurtha to Bijalpura, is nearing completion. The remaining part up to Bardibas is under preparation, with land being transferred to IRCON International Limited, a Government of India Undertaking.
Funding and Management
The construction cost of the entire stretch, estimated at Rs 784 crore, is funded by India as a grant to Nepal. Operational and maintenance responsibilities have been awarded to the Konkan Railway Corporation Limited. As per the bilateral understanding, they will also train and develop the Nepalese manpower.
Future Plans: Electric Rail Track and Freight Services
Further plans include laying an electric rail track linking Kathmandu with Raxaul in Bihar, India. Both governments have signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) in this regard. Additionally, an amendment to the India-Nepal Rail Services Agreement (RSA) 2004 has been approved, allowing authorized cargo train operators to utilize the Indian railway network for transporting Nepal’s container and other freight.
Significance of the Project
This railway line signifies more than just a transport link. It is seen as a crucial instrument in deepening India’s ties with Nepal and consolidating India’s influence in this strategically critical region.
Other Connectivity Initiatives
Similar collaborative initiatives include the development of inland waterways for cargo movement, providing Nepal with additional access to the sea. Termed as the ‘linking Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest) with Sagar (Indian Ocean)’, it falls within the framework of trade and transit arrangements. Furthermore, in 2019, both countries inaugurated a cross-border petroleum products pipeline, the first of its kind in South Asia. The pipeline transports petroleum products from Motihari in Bihar to Amlekhgunj in Nepal.