India and China are competing to establish railway connections with Nepal, seen by many as efforts to extend their influence in the region. India has taken a step ahead by handing over the Final Location Survey for the Raxaul-Kathmandu railway to Nepal.
Meanwhile, China is making progress with its Kerung-Kathmandu Railway project, conducting a field survey as part of its feasibility study. The two projects are part of a larger strategy to draw Nepal into their respective orbits of influence.
India’s Final Location Survey is being reviewed by Nepali authorities, while China’s technical team is completing the field survey for the Kerung-Kathmandu Railway. Both countries are vying for strategic ties with Nepal through these railway projects.