KATHMANDU: India has approved a weekly passenger train service between Janakpurdham in Nepal and Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh, a move expected to enhance cross-border connectivity and strengthen religious and cultural ties between the two neighbouring countries.

The decision comes ahead of Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s scheduled official visit to India on November 22. Indian media reports said the Ministry of Railways approved the proposed railway service on Saturday.

According to a statement issued by the ministry on November 14, the railway link will connect two prominent destinations associated with the Ramayana tradition. Janakpurdham is revered as the birthplace of Goddess Sita, while Ayodhya is traditionally regarded as the birthplace of Lord Ram.

The proposed service will cover approximately 604 kilometres between Janakpurdham and Ayodhya Cantt., passing through several towns and cities in the Indian states of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.

The train will stop at Jaynagar, Madhubani, Shisho, Sitamarhi, Raxaul, Narkatiaganj, Gorakhpur, Basti, Mankapur and Ayodhya Dham, in addition to the two terminal stations.

As per the ministry’s announcement, the train will operate once a week, departing from Janakpurdham every Saturday and returning from Ayodhya Cantt. every Monday.

The Indian Ministry of Railways said the initiative reflects the longstanding historical, cultural and social relationship between Nepal and India. It also noted that religious traditions and close-knit communities across the border have remained important elements of bilateral relations.

The ministry expressed confidence that the new railway connection would bring people from both countries closer and create additional opportunities for cooperation through improved transport links.

Nepal and India had also discussed expanding cross-border railway connectivity during talks in June this year. The discussions included the proposed passenger service between Janakpurdham and Ayodhya, alongside wider cooperation in the railway sector.