Kathmandu, Oct 26: India has stressed the importance of establishing rail links and improving the road network with Nepal to boost bilateral tourism even as tour operators have sought more direct flights between the two countries. Addressing a half-yearly general meeting of the Hotel Association of Nepal (HAN), India's Ambassador Shyam Saran said the two countries are looking at establishing rail links and upgrading the road network connecting them to boost tourism.
"With a view to promoting cross-border traffic, our two governments are also looking at an extension of Indian railway lines into Nepal," Saran said. Most north Indian cities have a large middle class population, with enough income to afford holidays during the summer when they want to avoid scorching heat, he said.
Participants at the meeting expressed the view that private airlines should provide direct air links between Nepalese and Indian cities to boost tourism. Nepal's two private airlines -- Buddha Air and Cosmic Air -- are interested in operating flights between the two countries, said Ajay Sthapit, vice president, HAN.
Bureau Report