Nepal PM K P Oli Advocates for Enhanced Waterways and Railways Connectivity

Nepal’s Prime Minister K P Oli has stressed the importance of developing the nation's waterways and railways for improved connectivity with India. In an annual progress review meeting, Oli directed civil servants to plan for operating steamer services and expanding railway lines, underscoring the public benefit, time efficiency, and safety of such projects.

Nepal's Prime Minister K P Oli has underlined the significance of enhancing the nation's waterways and railways to boost connectivity with India. Speaking at the annual progress review meeting of the Department of Road, Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport, Oli instructed civil servants to draft a plan to start steamer services from Hanumannagar to Triveni and Devghat.

Oli expressed regret over the underutilization of infrastructure for steamer services, which has been legally permitted since 1970. He emphasized that waterway transport is a cost-effective means for moving goods and people and urged officials to expedite the launch of this service.

In addition to waterway development, Oli stressed the importance of expanding Nepal's railway services. He proposed adding new railway lines to the existing Janakpur-Kurtha line and developing an East-West railway line to enhance connectivity with India, benefiting travelers from Assam to Delhi and Siliguri to Haridwar via Nepal. Oli also suggested a sky rail alternative for Kathmandu if underground train services prove unfeasible. The prime minister highlighted that such transport projects should focus on public benefit, time efficiency, and traveler safety.

(With inputs from agencies.)