India, Nov. 15 -- The Indian Railways has approved a new weekly train service between Janakpur Dham in Nepal and Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh, the government said on Saturday.

The ministry described the move as a "significant step towards strengthening India-Nepal connectivity". However, it has not yet been announced when the commercial operations will begin.

"The service will establish an important rail link between two destinations deeply associated with the Ramayana tradition - Janakpur Dham, revered as the birthplace of Mata Sita, and Ayodhya, the birthplace of Prabhu Shri Ram," the statement read.

It added, "The initiative will provide passengers from both countries with improved access to these prominent religious and cultural centre...