April 11:  Lack of laws is preventing the operation of railway service on Kurtha-Jayanagar route despite all preparations. The railway track constructed with the financial assistance of the Government of India had been completed last year.    
The train bought by the government for the railway service was brought six months back.    
Guru Bhattarai, General Manager of Nepal Railway Company Pvt Ltd, said the entire human resources and other technicians required for operating the railway service were managed after the arrival of the train.    
According to him, the railway service will be operated soon after the required laws are formulated.    
The company stated that an agreement has already been reached with the Government of India for the required technical and human resources and to bring the rail engine.    
"We have not been able to bring the engine due to the lack of related legislation. We will be in a position to bring the engine once the laws are passed," said General Manager Bhattarai, adding that an agreement has been signed with India for bringing some human resources required for operating the railway service.

"They (the Indian technicians and railway workers) are ready to come to Nepal. We can bring them immediately when required," said Bhattarai.    
The government has already completed the technical preparations for the operation of the Kurtha-Jayanagar railway service. The train set was purchased from the Indian company, Konkon Company.    
It has been reported that 26 technical and human resources are being brought from India in coordination with the company. They include pilot, station master, power manager, senior traffic manager, among others. General Manager Bhattarai said that Nepali staff and other technicians have been already managed for the operation of the railway service. Armed Police Force (APF) will be responsible for the security and safety of the rail and the company's equipment and goods.
The Railway Department said 1,200 to 1,300 passengers, including those seated and standing, can travel by the train.    
"Fixing a fare price rate for the tickets has already been decided," said Bhattarai. The company has proposed a fair rate in collaboration with the concerned ministry. Travelling 35 kilometers costs Rs 75, according to the fare price list.    
"The company will soon provide a week-long training session to Nepali workers," said Bhattarai, adding that those workers having prior experience in the railway sector will be prioritized. "Regular operation will take place in two to three weeks," he said. -- RSS