The Government of India has earmarked Rs 120 billion for the expansion and modernization of the railway infrastructure in the northeastern region. This allocation is set to accelerate the much-anticipated Bhutan-India railway link, as reported by Bhutan Live.
Project Details
According to the Bhutan-based media outlet, the Indian government will fully fund an estimated Rs 10 billion project. This 57.5 km railway line will bridge Kokrajhar in Assam and Gelephu in Sarpang, Bhutan. The expected completion of this transformative project is in 2026.
India-Bhutan Collaboration
India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, recently highlighted the ongoing talks between India and Bhutan about this railway initiative. He mentioned, “Bhutan is eager to expand its tourism avenues, and this railway link promises substantial benefits for Assam. The proposed connection between Gelephu and Kokrajhar could revolutionize both trade and tourism.”
Benefits of the Railway Link
This railway venture holds the potential to:
- Facilitate efficient goods export.
- Foster cultural exchanges.
- Strengthen the bilateral relationship between India and Bhutan.
Historical Context
The momentum for this project was set during the Bhutanese Prime Minister’s inaugural visit to India in 2018. The initiation of the Gelephu-Kokrajhar rail link is likely to catalyze more railway projects in the southern and eastern regions of both countries, covering areas like Samtse, Phuentsholing, Nganglam, and Samdrupjongkhar.
A Shared Vision
Bhutan and India cemented their commitment to this visionary project in 2005 by signing a Memorandum of Understanding. This agreement solidified their mutual goal of connecting the border towns of both nations via a railway network. As developments progress, the historic Bhutan-India railway link is on the verge of becoming a tangible symbol of enhanced connectivity and collaboration.
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