In a transformative step for regional integration, India and Bhutan have approved their first-ever cross-border railway links, aimed at strengthening economic and strategic cooperation. These two new rail lines—Kokrajhar–Gelephu and Banarhat–Samtse—represent a major advancement in bilateral connectivity, with significant potential to reshape trade, mobility, and diplomatic ties between the two Himalayan neighbors.
Project Overview: Bridging Borders
Kokrajhar–Gelephu Line
- The Kokrajhar–Gelephu route, budgeted at ₹3,456 crore, will link Assam’s Kokrajhar district with Bhutan’s Gelephu in the Sarpang region.
- This 70-kilometer line will include six stations and nearly 100 bridges, traversing the challenging terrain of India’s northeast.
- Gelephu, which Bhutan is developing into a “Mindfulness City”, will now gain vital access to Indian markets and ports.
Banarhat–Samtse Line
- The second line, Banarhat–Samtse, is a shorter connection stretching from West Bengal’s Banarhat in Jalpaiguri district to Bhutan’s Samtse.
- With an outlay of ₹577 crore, this 20-kilometer route includes two stations and approximately 25 bridges, and is strategically positioned to support Samtse’s growth as an industrial hub.
Total Investment
- Combined, both projects amount to ₹4,033 crore, marking a significant infrastructure commitment by India to its closest Himalayan ally.
Boost to Trade and Economic Activity
- These rail projects are expected to drastically cut logistics costs, shorten transit times, and improve access to Indian ports, thereby integrating Bhutan more fully into regional and global trade networks.
- Industries in Bhutan’s border regions stand to benefit, especially with the development focus on Samtse and Gelephu.
Strategic and Diplomatic Significance
- The railway projects reinforce India’s role as a key development partner for Bhutan.
- They also serve as a counterbalance to external strategic influences in South Asia.
- By linking Bhutan to Indian railways, New Delhi not only facilitates Bhutan’s economic ambitions but also strengthens cultural and civilizational ties.
Fast-Tracked Development
- The Kokrajhar–Gelephu line has been designated a “Special Railway Project”, enabling faster clearances and land acquisition.
- This shows the Indian government’s strategic prioritization of the project.
- The move aligns with broader regional initiatives to enhance border connectivity and support India’s Act East policy.
Key Facts
- First India–Bhutan rail projects: Kokrajhar–Gelephu and Banarhat–Samtse
- Total cost: ₹4,033 crore
- Kokrajhar–Gelephu: ~70 km, 6 stations, 100 bridges
- Banarhat–Samtse: ~20 km, 2 stations, 25 bridges
- Gelephu: Planned “Mindfulness City”
- Kokrajhar line: Declared a Special Railway Project