Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state:
(a) whether the Government has launched any projects to extend rail/road connectivity with Nepal;
(b) if so, the broad details thereof; and
(c) the time by which these projects are likely to be completed?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS
[GEN. (DR) V. K. SINGH (RETD)]
(a) Yes, projects to extend rail/road connectivity with Nepal are being implemented with Government of India (GoI) assistance.
(b) Two Cross Border Rail Links namely, 18.6 kms long line from Jogbani (India) to Biratnagar (Nepal) and 68.72 kms long line from Jayanagar (India) to Bardibas (Nepal) are currently under execution. The GoI is also undertaking construction of roads in the Terai region of Nepal. Construction of two roads under Phase-1 with total length of 71.20 kms has been completed in November 2015. In February 2016, it was agreed to undertake construction of remaining seventeen roads of total length of 515 kms (approx.) under GoI-funded-GoN-implemented modality.
(c) As the Government of Nepal (GoN) has been handing over land in phases, the construction of Rail links is progressing on the available stretches of land and can be completed in two years from the date of handing over of all the stretches by GoN, subject to necessary local permits and conducive environment in Nepal. Construction of the remaining 17 roads under Terai Roads Phase-1 will commence after award of tender.