new-rail-routes-to-bangladesh-nepal-on-the-cards

Indian Railways has approved the Final Location Survey (FLS) for 14 new railway connectivity routes to neighbouring countries, totaling 1275.50 km in length.

 

These routes aim to enhance transportation links and promote stronger ties between India and its neighbours, aligning with the 'Neighbourhood First' policy.

 

Bangladesh connectivity:

 

The sanctioned routes for FLS of rail connectivity between India and Bangladesh include:

1. Balurghat – Hili – Parbatipur – Kaunia – Lalmanirhat – Mogalhat – Gitaldaha section: 32 km, comprising 14 km of new railway line and 18 km of gauge conversion.
2. Balurghat – Gitaldaha – Bamanhat – Sonahat – Golakganj – Dhubri section: 56 km, with 38 km of new railway line and 18 km of gauge conversion.
3. Mangurjan – Pirganj – Thakurgaon – Panchgarh – Haldibari route: 60 km new railway line.
4. Radhikapur – Birol – Parbatipur – Kaunia – Gitaldaha section: 32 km, with 14 km new railway line and 18 km gauge conversion.
5. Belonia – Feni – Chottogram route: 131 km, with 38 km new railway line and 93 km gauge conversion.
6. Petrapole – Benapole –Nabharon–Jessore – Rupdia – Padmabila – Lohagara – Kashiani– Shibchar – Mawa – Nimtala – Gendaria – Dhaka – Tongi – Bhairab Bazar – Akhaura – Agartala route: 120 km gauge conversion.

These new routes will significantly enhance rail connectivity between India and Bangladesh, fostering stronger economic and cultural ties.

Nepal connectivity:

The approved route for FLS of rail connectivity between India and Nepal is the Biratnagar – New Mal Jn section, requiring construction of 190 km of new railway line. Additionally, the proposed Galgalia – Bhadrapur – Kajali Bazar section will involve constructing 12.5 km of new railway line.

These initiatives aim to strengthen connectivity through the Siliguri corridor or the 'chicken-neck' portion, promoting trade, tourism, and people-to-people contacts between India and Nepal.

Enhanced connectivity for northeast India:

To bolster connectivity to the Northeastern states, alternate routes are proposed:

• Forbesganj – Lakshamipur section: 17.60 km
• Thakurganj – Chattarhat section: 24.40 km
• Kumedpur – AmbariFalakata route: 170 km new railway line.

These initiatives will not only improve connectivity but also contribute to the socio-economic development of the region.

Promoting friendly relations:

The Indian government's commitment to developing friendly and mutually beneficial relations with neighbouring countries is evident through these initiatives.

 

Under the 'Neighbourhood First' policy, emphasis is laid on enhancing rail/road connectivity, infrastructure development, and fostering greater people-to-people contacts.