Proposed Assam-Bhutan Railway Line Aims to Enhance Cross-Border Connectivity
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Synopsis
A proposed railway line from Assam to Bhutan seeks to bolster cross-border connectivity and strengthen bilateral relations, with plans for new stations and infrastructure enhancements.
Key Takeaways
- New railway line proposed from Kokrajhar to Gelephu.
- Project estimated at Rs 3,500 crores.
- Includes development of six new stations.
- Aims to strengthen India-Bhutan ties.
- Enhances trade, tourism, and cultural exchanges.
Guwahati, March 1 (NationPress) A proposed railway line connecting Assam's Kokrajhar to Gelephu in Bhutan aims to enhance cross-border connectivity and fortify bilateral relations, officials announced on Saturday.
The Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) of the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), Kapinjal Kishore Sharma, stated that the Indian Railways is making significant strides towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of the ‘Act East Policy’ and ‘Neighborhood First Policy’.
“In line with these initiatives, a series of new railway projects are underway to boost connectivity with neighboring nations,” he added.
Sharma emphasized that the proposed railway line from Kokrajhar to Gelephu is integral to enhancing cross-border connectivity and reinforcing diplomatic ties.
Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw revealed the project during the ‘Advantage Assam 2.0 Investment and Infrastructure Summit’ in Guwahati on February 25. The CPRO noted that the planned 69.04 km railway line will link Kokrajhar station in Assam to Gelephu in Bhutan, with an estimated budget of Rs 3,500 crores. This project entails the establishment of six new stations: Balajan, Garubhasa, Runikhata, Shantipur, Dadgiri, and Gelephu. The infrastructure blueprint includes two major bridges, 29 significant bridges, 65 minor bridges, one Road Over Bridge (ROB), 39 Road Under Bridges (RUB), and two viaducts measuring 11 meters in length.
Sharma stated that the Final Location Survey (FLS) has been completed successfully, and the Detailed Project Report (DPR) has been submitted for further review and necessary approvals. This proposed railway line will significantly bolster India-Bhutan relations by promoting trade, tourism, and cultural exchanges between the two nations. It will also enhance connectivity, offering Bhutan its first railway link and facilitating seamless transportation.
Furthermore, this railway line will position Bodoland in western Assam as a crucial trade and transit hub, benefitting local enterprises and communities. Overall, the Assam-Bhutan railway line is poised to revolutionize Bodoland’s economy and connectivity, paving the path for sustained growth and development.
Meanwhile, the forthcoming Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) project, spearheaded by the Bhutan government, promises benefits for both Bhutan and Assam. Covering an area of 2,500 square km, the GMC represents a Special Administrative Region in Bhutan, envisioned by King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. It is an innovative urban project that marries economic advancement with mindfulness, holistic living, and sustainability.
Located along Datgari in the Chirang district of Assam, the GMC’s strategic position at the intersection of major economic regions, including South Asia, ASEAN, and China, along with Bhutan's commitment to sustainable development, rich cultural heritage, and robust governance, positions the City as a global leader in mindful and sustainable urban growth.
