Rail connectivity projects aim to enhance trade and access between India and Bhutan.
The Union government has announced the establishment of two new railway connections between India and Bhutan, marking the initiation of the first set of rail connectivity projects between the two nations. This development aims to strengthen economic ties and improve accessibility for both countries.
One of the proposed railway links will connect Kokrajhar in Assam to Gelephu in Bhutan, while the second line will run between Banarhat in West Bengal and Samtse in Bhutan. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw disclosed that the total investment for these projects is estimated to be around Rs 4,033 crore, covering a combined length of approximately 90 kilometers.
In further details, Minister Vaishnaw noted that the Kokrajhar-Gelephu rail link is projected to be completed in four years, whereas the Banarhat-Samtse connection is expected to be finished in three years. The significance of these projects is underscored by Bhutan’s current development plans, as Gelephu is being transformed into a mindfulness city, and Samtse is designated as an industrial city.
Vaishnaw emphasized the importance of these railway connections for Bhutan’s economy, stating that India is Bhutan’s largest trading partner. He highlighted that a substantial portion of Bhutan’s exempt trade is conducted through Indian ports, making efficient rail connectivity essential for the growth of Bhutan’s economy and for providing better access to international markets for its citizens.
With the new rail links, Bhutan will gain access to an extensive network of 1.5 lakh kilometers of the Indian railway system, facilitating smoother trade and transportation. The memorandum of understanding for these projects was signed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Bhutan in 2024, underscoring the collaborative efforts between the two nations to bolster connectivity and trade.
This initiative not only aims to enhance logistical capabilities but also reflects the deepening bilateral relationship between India and Bhutan, characterized by mutual economic interests and shared development goals. The rail connectivity projects are expected to play a crucial role in enhancing the socio-economic landscape of Bhutan while simultaneously benefiting Indian railways through increased trade volumes.
As the two countries embark on this journey of enhanced connectivity, the focus remains on fostering a robust partnership that can withstand the test of time, ensuring that both nations thrive together in an increasingly interconnected world.
