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A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Government of India and the Royal Government of Bhutan was signed on 25th January, 2005 for conducting feasibility studies for the establishments of Railway Links between the bordering towns of India and Bhutan. Under the MOU, M/s RITES, a Public Sector Undertaking, would conduct feasibility studies for the extension of the Indian Railway network from the States of West Bengal and Assam to the nearest border towns in Bhutan covering the following links :
1. Hasimara (West Bengal)-Phuentsholing (18 kms.) and bifurcation toPasakha.
2. Kokrajhar (Assam)-Gelephu (70 kms)
3. Pathsala (Assam)-Nanglam ( 40 kms)
4. Rangia (Assam)-Samdrupjongkhar via Darranga (60 Km); and
5. Banarhat (West Bengal)-Samtse (16 km.)
6.
The feasibility studies would be financed by Government of India on grant basis. The decision regarding establishment of rail connectivity between the two countries would be taken by the two Governments depending upon the result of the feasibility studies.
The above information was given by the Minister of State for Railways, Shri R. Velu, in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.
HB/BKS/AS
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