In a landmark step towards enhancing regional connectivity, the much-anticipated 69.04-kilometre cross-border railway project linking Gelephu in Bhutan to Kokrajhar in Assam, India, is moving closer to becoming a reality. The project, which will provide Bhutan with its first-ever railway link, promises to transform trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between the two neighbouring nations.
The Detailed Project Report (DPR), based on the final location survey, has already been submitted to the Indian government for approval. Officials from both countries are working in close coordination to finalise operational frameworks, including customs and security protocols, to ensure seamless transit once the railway becomes functional.
Munu Mahawar, Additional Secretary of the Northern Division at India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), expressed optimism during a recent interaction with journalists from Bhutan and Nepal. “Very soon, on an appropriate occasion, we will formally sign the Memorandum of Understanding,” he said. “Let me assure you that both governments are working closely towards the early implementation of the project.”
The railway line, which aligns with His Majesty the King’s vision to develop Gelephu into a Mindfulness City, is expected to play a critical role in supporting its infrastructure and trade ecosystem. Gelephu’s growing importance as a regional economic hub has been widely acknowledged, with this railway set to act as a backbone for future development.
According to the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO), construction is likely to begin within two years, with a completion timeline of approximately five years. The project, announced by the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) on July 3, is estimated to cost around INR 35 billion (INR 3,500 crores).
The railway will feature six stations — Balajan, Garubhasa, Runikhata, Shantipur, Dadgiri, and Gelephu — along with two major bridges, 29 other bridges, 65 minor bridges, one road over-bridge, 39 road under-bridges, and two viaducts.
Beyond infrastructure, the project is expected to significantly boost regional economic integration. The MEA highlighted that moving beyond traditional road-based transport to railway connectivity represents a strategic shift in India-Bhutan relations. “Once operational, the railway link could play a crucial role in regional economic integration and infrastructure development,” an MEA statement noted.
The Northeast Frontier Railway emphasised that the Kokrajhar-Gelephu railway line would be a game-changer for Bodoland’s economy, turning it into a thriving trade and transit hub. Local communities and businesses are expected to benefit immensely from improved connectivity and increased trade opportunities.
The project also reflects India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy, strengthening ties with Bhutan while promoting sustainable economic growth in border regions.
Alongside the Gelephu-Kokrajhar line, Bhutan has also proposed the Samtse-Banarhat railway line in West Bengal, marking a significant step towards modern cross-border connectivity.
Once completed, the Gelephu-Kokrajhar railway will not only stand as a symbol of strong bilateral cooperation but also usher in a new era of economic prosperity and people-to-people connectivity in the region.
