New show to explore train journey from India to Pakistan

"India's Frontier Railways", a new TV series will explore the journey of passengers on the international trains that connect India to Pakistan, Nepal and Bangladesh.

The Discovery Channel show, premiering on Thursday, is a three-part series which will shine the spotlight on heart-warming stories of reunion, cultures, history and journey of people across borders.

The idea is to "present the incredible history of India's cross border trains and their significant role in connecting the people and the nations," said Rahul Johri, executive vice president and general manager - South Asia, Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific.

"The audience will have a heart-warming viewing experience as they will get the opportunity to watch the three trains traverse through India's borders in Nepal, Pakistan and Bangladesh," Johri added.

Each one-hour long episode will offer viewers a first-account narration of people whose work and travel depend on these trains.

The first episode is on "Maitree Express", about a train connecting India and Bangladesh. It takes 12 hours to make the 392 km journey from Kolkata to Dhaka.

"The Last Train In Nepal" will showcase the train that crosses the border between India and Nepal along a line that runs for 20 miles from Janakpur to the Indian junction of Jaynagar. It will also reveal how the line is now under threat of closure following a starvation of funds from the Indian government, which has left the train and the track in a state of despair.

The episode will showcase the community alongside the border and railway workers who are struggling every day to keep their train and their hopes alive.

The third episode of the series is "The Samjhauta Express", in which viewers will get to see Bilal and his father who are seeking medical treatment in India, along with hockey champion Rahat Khan who is travelling to play an international match.

The episode will also highlight on Guru Nanak's birthday as the railway runs special train across the border to the Guru's birthplace in Pakistan.