IBNS-CMEDIA: In a significant step towards strengthening cross-border connectivity between India and Nepal, Indian Railways has approved the introduction of a new weekly train service connecting Janakpur Dham in Nepal with Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh, India.
The new service will establish an important rail link between two destinations deeply associated with the Ramayana tradition. Janakpur Dham is revered as the birthplace of Goddess Sita, while Ayodhya is regarded as the birthplace of Lord Ram.
The initiative is expected to provide passengers from both countries with improved access to these prominent religious and cultural centres while further strengthening their shared civilisational heritage.
Connecting key destinations across the border
Covering approximately 604 kilometres, the weekly train service will connect Janakpur Dham with Ayodhya Cantt., passing through several important towns and cities in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.
The train will have commercial stoppages at Jaynagar, Madhubani, Shisho, Sitamarhi, Raxaul, Narkatiaganj, Gorakhpur, Basti, Mankapur and Ayodhya Dham, apart from its terminal stations.
The service will operate once a week, departing from Janakpur Dham on Saturdays and from Ayodhya Cantt. on Mondays.
Boost to religious tourism, trade and regional development
The new rail service is expected to make cross-border travel more convenient for pilgrims, tourists and other passengers. It will facilitate religious journeys between Janakpur and Ayodhya, promote tourism circuits associated with the Ramayana and improve mobility for people travelling for education, business and family-related purposes, according to an official government statement.
Improved rail connectivity is also expected to benefit local economies along the route by creating new opportunities for tourism operators, hospitality establishments, local traders and traditional artisans.
For communities in the border regions of Bihar and Nepal, the service will provide an additional passenger transport option while strengthening economic and social ties.
Strengthening India-Nepal friendship
India and Nepal share centuries-old cultural, historical and social bonds, with religious traditions and cross-border community relationships forming an integral part of their bilateral partnership.
The new train service will add another dimension to bilateral cooperation by leveraging railway connectivity to bring people and communities closer.
Through this initiative, Indian Railways aims to expand passenger connectivity while promoting regional tourism, supporting economic activity and reinforcing the enduring friendship between the two neighbouring countries.
