Salience of India’s cross-border railway connectivity

India's push for cross-border railway connectivity is driven by strong political, economic, and geostrategic motivations, yet progress has been slower than expected. Despite inaugurating new lines with Bangladesh and Nepal, and plans for further expansion, rail freight and passenger traffic remain limited.

A recent paper by noted New Delhi based think tank CSEP tackled the pressing question: Why has India struggled to sustain momentum in developing a robust regional rail network, despite clear incentives? Through a comprehensive review of India’s cross-border railway efforts over the past two decades, the paper examined key drivers and challenges.

It explored India’s progress, the economic and political factors behind its renewed interest, and the obstacles that hinder growth, such as cost advantages of road transport and fragmented infrastructure.


To unlock the full potential of rail connectivity, the paper by CSEP Associate Fellow Riya Sinha, called for enhanced institutional cooperation, streamlined procedures, and private sector participation, offering a roadmap for strengthening India’s rail links in South Asia and solidifying its position as a regional leader in connectivity.

“Cross-border connectivity is more than logistics; it reflects the shifting geoeconomic landscape of the region. This paper analyses the progress on India’s railway connectivity with its neighbouring countries, identifies key enablers, and contributes to advancing India’s regional integration efforts,” according to Sinha.

Several factors drive India’s push for rail connectivity. Economically, it offers a chance to tap into the region’s burgeoning growth and lower logistics costs, enhancing trade competitiveness. Politically, it aligns with India’s “Neighbourhood First” and “Act East” policies, fostering regional cooperation. At the geostrategic level, railway connectivity provides New Delhi a counterbalance to China’s growing influence through infrastructure projects in South Asia, according to the paper.

However, according to the paper, progress has been slow due to several challenges: Limited coordination between railway agencies and other government departments in India and neighbouring countries hinders project implementation.

Shortage of cargo-handling equipment, inadequate platforms, and a lack of dedicated goods stations create bottlenecks and delays; Non-standardised operational procedures; Security concerns and limited private sector participation.

To overcome challenges the paper suggested strengthening institutional cooperation; leveraging development cooperation; Improving cargo-handling infrastructure and standardising operational procedures and enabling private sector participation and addressing security concerns.