NEW DELHI (Diya TV) — India plans to invest up to 450 billion rupees, or about $4.7 billion, to strengthen railway infrastructure along its borders with China, Pakistan and Bangladesh, according to people familiar with the discussions. The move marks one of the country’s biggest strategic railway projects in recent years. It also reflects New Delhi’s continued focus on improving transport links in sensitive border regions.
The investment will roll out over the next 18 to 24 months. Officials plan to build new railway tracks, expand platforms and strengthen existing rail networks in several key states. These include Punjab, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, West Bengal, Assam and other northeastern states.
The planned spending will account for about 22% of India’s total railway infrastructure budget over the next two years, according to the people, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the discussions remain private. The Railway Ministry did not respond to requests for comment.
The project aims to improve transportation for local communities. At the same time, it will support military logistics during emergencies. As a result, the upgraded railway system will serve both civilian and strategic purposes.
India has increased its focus on border infrastructure in recent years. The latest railway plan builds on earlier projects that expanded roads, bridges and tunnels in frontier regions. In addition, it follows previous investments that improved rail connectivity across the country’s northeastern states.
The timing also reflects changing regional conditions. India’s relationship with China has stabilized after the deadly border clash in 2020. However, both countries continue to improve infrastructure near disputed areas. Meanwhile, India experienced a brief conflict with Pakistan last year. In addition, political changes in Bangladesh since 2024 have created new challenges for regional cooperation.
Because of these developments, India has placed greater importance on reliable transport networks near its international borders. Faster rail links can reduce travel time for both passengers and freight. They can also help move defense equipment more quickly if needed.
The railway expansion will strengthen access to several strategically important regions. These include the Himalayan border areas, the Siliguri Corridor and the northeastern states. Better rail connections can improve supply chains throughout the year, even during difficult weather conditions. Moreover, stronger transport networks can support economic growth in areas that have historically seen limited infrastructure development.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has repeatedly highlighted the importance of improving connectivity in border regions. His government has already approved about 1,450 kilometers, or 900 miles, of new roads along the Pakistan border. It has also supported infrastructure upgrades near Doklam, a plateau close to the India-Bhutan border that both China and Bhutan claim.
Last year, Modi inaugurated the world’s tallest railway bridge, linking the Kashmir Valley with the rest of India. The project marked another major step in the government’s broader effort to strengthen national transportation networks.
The northeastern region has also received significant investment during the past decade. According to people familiar with the plans, India has added roughly 1,700 kilometers of railway lines across the region. These projects have improved connectivity for residents while also supporting economic activity.
Beyond railways, India has restored several Advance Landing Grounds in its northeastern territories. These airfields, many of which remained inactive since the 1962 India-China war, can now support helicopters and military aircraft. Together, these improvements create a stronger transportation network across sensitive border areas.
China has also accelerated infrastructure development near the frontier. Following the 2017 military standoff around Doklam, Beijing expanded airports, heliports and other dual-use facilities that support both civilian and military operations. Analysts say these projects have improved the mobility of China’s People’s Liberation Army in border regions.
