B Mirror Desk : India has halted progress on at least three significant railway connectivity projects with Bangladesh, along with five additional proposed initiatives, due to concerns over political instability and labor safety in Bangladesh, as reported by Indian media outlets including The Hindu and Business Line.

These projects were part of a larger effort to enhance connectivity between India’s mainland and its seven northeastern states through Bangladesh. However, in light of the ongoing unrest and security issues, Indian officials are now considering alternative transit routes through neighboring countries such as Nepal and Bhutan, as well as improving infrastructure within India, particularly through the strategically important Siliguri Corridor, often referred to as the “Chicken’s Neck.”

Reports indicate that nearly ₹5,000 crore allocated for the Bangladesh route has been suspended. In its place, a new initiative worth ₹3,500–₹4,000 crore is being evaluated to establish transit links through Nepal and Bhutan.

The three projects currently on hold include the Akhaura–Agartala Cross-Border Rail Link, the Khulna–Mongla Port Rail Line, and the Dhaka–Tongi–Joydebpur rail expansion.

Additionally, surveys for five other rail routes have been put on pause.

In the meantime, Indian railway authorities are ramping up efforts to double or quadruple existing rail lines in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, which are crucial for accessing the Siliguri Corridor. A senior railway official confirmed that survey work is already in progress.

India is also actively investigating the establishment of rail corridors through Nepal and Bhutan, leveraging existing agreements such as the India–Nepal rail pact and Bhutan’s proximity to India’s northeastern region. Although these alternatives present logistical challenges, they could help reduce India’s reliance on Bangladesh for regional rail connectivity.