How is Nepal facilitating a land swap deal for Kolkata Metro?
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Synopsis
In a strategic move, Nepal has approved a land swap with India to aid the Kolkata Metro project, enhancing infrastructure while benefiting both nations. This agreement promises improved connectivity and a larger land parcel for Nepal, making it a significant development for regional collaboration.
Key Takeaways
- Nepal's government has approved a land swap with India to support the Kolkata Metro project.
- The deal involves a land exchange of 409.53 square meters for 526.34 square meters.
- This arrangement benefits both nations in terms of infrastructure development.
- The Kolkata Metro's Purple Line is set to enhance connectivity in southern Kolkata.
- Minister Jagadish Kharel confirmed the cabinet's approval of the agreement.
Kathmandu, Oct 10 (NationPress) The government of Nepal has given the green light to a land exchange agreement involving its Consulate General in Kolkata and the Indian Railway Development Corporation Limited. This arrangement is aimed at supporting the construction of the Kolkata Metro's Purple Line project.
Nepal’s Minister for Communication and Information Technology, Jagadish Kharel, announced on Friday that the cabinet meeting has sanctioned the swap of 409.53 square metres of land owned by the Nepali Consulate in Kolkata for 526.34 square metres of land owned by the Indian Railway Development Corporation Limited.
As per the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Nepal, both pieces of land are adjacent to each other. A senior official from the foreign ministry disclosed to IANS that this land swap will assist in constructing India’s vital infrastructure.
“This is a mutually beneficial agreement as it allows the Indian side to develop its essential railway infrastructure, while Nepal gains a larger parcel of land in the neighboring area,” stated the official, preferring to remain anonymous. “Since a building currently occupies the land being exchanged with the Indian Railway Development Corporation, they have committed to constructing a superior facility on the land Nepal will acquire in return.”
The Indian side had been advocating for a resolution regarding this matter for a long time, as the alignment of the Kolkata Metro intersects with the land held by Nepal's Consulate General. Previous reports indicate that discussions on this issue occurred in July of this year. Approximately 60 metres of the Purple Line's 450-metre ramp is set to be constructed adjacent to the existing premises of the Nepal Consulate, as per the reports.
The Joka–Esplanade (Purple Line) of the Kolkata Metro is among the city’s latest metro corridors, designed to enhance connectivity in southern Kolkata and improve access to central business districts.
Point of View
Emphasizing a collaborative approach to infrastructure development. As a national editor, it is imperative to recognize the benefits this arrangement brings to both countries, promoting regional cooperation and economic growth.
NationPress
10/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the land swap agreement?
The land swap agreement aims to facilitate the construction of the Kolkata Metro's Purple Line project while benefiting both Nepal and India through improved land use.
How much land is being exchanged?
Nepal is exchanging 409.53 square meters of land for 526.34 square meters owned by the Indian Railway Development Corporation Limited.
What benefits does Nepal gain from this deal?
Nepal will receive a larger piece of land in proximity to its Consulate in Kolkata, enhancing its land holdings.
Why was this land swap necessary?
The land swap was necessary as the Kolkata Metro's alignment intersects with land owned by the Nepalese Consulate, requiring a resolution for construction.
Who announced the approval of the land swap?
The approval was announced by Nepal's Minister for Communication and Information Technology, Jagadish Kharel.
