The Indian government has approved two cross-border railway projects aimed at strengthening connectivity with Bhutan, with a combined investment of ₹4,033 crore. The initiatives include a 69-km line linking Kokrajhar in Assam to Gelephu in Bhutan and a 20-km line connecting Banarhat in West Bengal to Samtse, Bhutan. These projects are expected to enhance trade, passenger movement, and economic opportunities in the border regions.
Officials from the Ministry of Railways stated that the Kokrajhar-Gelephu line, valued at ₹3,456 crore, will feature six stations, two major bridges, 29 additional major bridges, 65 minor bridges, two goodsheds, one flyover, and 39 underpasses. The line will cover 66.66 km on the Indian side and 2.39 km within Bhutan, with an anticipated construction period of four years. The 20-km Banarhat-Samtse line, costing ₹577 crore, will include two stations, one major bridge, 24 minor bridges, one overpass, and 37 underpasses. This project will span 17.42 km in India and 2.13 km in Bhutan, with completion expected within three years. Both railways will be fully electrified and designed to accommodate modern trains, including semi-high-speed Vande Bharat trains, along with advanced signalling systems.
Experts emphasised that the projects hold strategic and economic significance. Gelephu is being developed as a Mindfulness City, while Samtse is envisioned as an industrial hub. The rail links are expected to facilitate the seamless movement of goods such as dolomite, ferro-silicon, quartzite, and stone chips from Bhutan to India, significantly reducing transport costs compared to roadways. Authorities have assured that all environmental, safety, and security protocols are being carefully considered, with mutual consultations between the two countries. The projects were conceptualised following Prime Ministerial engagements with Bhutan in March 2024, underlining India’s ongoing developmental support. Funding for the Indian segments will be provided by the Railways Ministry, while the Bhutanese segments will be supported under India’s contribution to Bhutan’s 13th Five Year Plan (2024–29), which includes ₹10,000 crore in assistance for developmental, economic, and community projects.
Officials highlighted that these rail corridors will not only promote bilateral trade but also create employment opportunities and skill development initiatives for Bhutanese citizens in railway operations. Strategically, these projects reinforce India’s commitment to regional connectivity and sustainable infrastructure development, while fostering cross-border economic growth. By integrating environmentally conscious construction methods, electrified lines, and advanced engineering, these projects align with broader objectives of creating eco-friendly, resilient, and inclusive transport networks in South Asia.
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