India-Nepal rail link restored: UP CM Yogi Adityanath at Varanasi-Nepalgunj trains | Today’s news
Train services between India and Nepal resumed on Monday after nearly a decade as Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath flagged off a new broad gauge train service connecting Varanasi and Nepalgunj Road.
The inauguration was held in Bahrain, with Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw joining the event virtually from New Delhi.
CM Adityanath shared this news on X: “When connectivity improves, it gives us speed and when that speed moves towards the goal in a positive direction, it forms the very basis of progress.”
Infrastructure modernization and economic impact
According to a LiveHindustan report, the launch marks the completion of the conversion of the 56-km Bahraich-Nanpara-Nepalgunj railway section from the outdated meter-gauge system to a broad-gauge network.
The infrastructure upgrade was completed at a cost ₹730 crore, replacing the limited connectivity that previously constrained transit and economic activity in the border region.
During the event, Adityanath said the upgraded railway network will improve cross-border trade, boost local agriculture and accelerate regional development by establishing Nanpara as a key transit gateway.
He also noted that the direct rail link will facilitate religious tourism by seamlessly connecting shared cultural centers in Nepal like Janakpur and Gorkha with Indian cities like Ayodhya, Gorakhpur and Varanasi.
Check train operation and timetable
According to LiveHindustan, four trains will run regularly on the route: two express and two passenger/MEMU services. These trains will stop at twelve key stations across Uttar Pradesh, creating direct connectivity between the border region and major transit hubs.
Inaugural run
A 17-coach inaugural special train (Train No. 05064) ran from Nepalgunj Road to Varanasi city to commence operations.
The train, which included AC, sleeper and general coaches, made regular halts at stations including Nanpara, Bahraich, Gonda, Balrampur and Gorakhpur. As part of the launch, the railways distributed free ride coupons to around 600 passengers for the inaugural ride.
Station Manager Rakesh Seth confirmed to LiveHindustan that most of the passengers traveled to Varanasi on the first day to visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Bahraini MP Dr Anand Gond also traveled on the first leg of the train to Risiya.
