Problems of Railway Transport

1. Poor Maintenance: The technology used in railways is old and outdated. Spare parts are not available. The maintenance has been very poor. Safety is poor. Railway lines need rehabilitation.
2. Disruptions: Frequent breakdowns and natural calamities from floods and landslides disrupt railway services. This has made the service unreliable.
3. High Cost: Compared to road transport, railways  costs are high in Nepal.
4. Poor Sustainability: Lack of alternative road transport is responsible for sustainability of railways. Future sustainability is questionable. Financial performance of railways is also poor.

Nepal and India negotiations are going on for the development of a railway network in Nepal. China has plans to connect its Tibet region with Nepal through railways.

Position of Railway Transport in Nepal

Railways are an important mode of transport for passengers and goods for projects. Nepal's network of railway transport consisted of:

• Raxaul - Amlekhgunj Line (non operational)
• Janakpur - Jayanagar Line
• Raxaul - Birgunj Dryport Line

The Raxaul - Amlekhganj line became non operational after the opening up of Tribhuvan Highway which linked Kathmandu to India. At present Janakpur - Jayanagar line, which is 51 kilometers in length, is operational. Raxaul - Birgunj Dryport line has recently become operational with Indian Aid for import and export purposes.