In a landmark announcement at the Changlimathang stadium in Thimphu, Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck unveiled an ambitious vision for the country’s future: the Gelephu smart city. This “international city” project, sprawling over 2,000 square kilometers near the border with Assam, represents a significant leap towards connecting South Asia with Southeast Asia, promising profound economic and infrastructural transformations.
The strategic placement of the Gelephu smart city aims to serve as an economic corridor, linking India’s northeastern states to Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, and Singapore. This network of connectivity, anchored by the India-Bhutan railway line extending to Gelephu, is expected to boost trade and cultural exchange, fostering regional integration in an increasingly globalized world.
The Gelephu Mindfulness City Project is set to redefine urban development with its commitment to being carbon-negative. Leveraging Gelephu’s unique marshland landscape, the city’s design prioritizes environmental sustainability. This initiative has garnered interest from several neighboring countries, including India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Singapore, and Indonesia, signaling broad regional support and the potential for collaborative growth.
However, the journey towards this visionary city is not without its challenges. Bhutan faces significant economic hurdles, including slow growth, a downturn in tourism, and rising unemployment. The government’s response has been robust, with an Economic Stimulus Programme backed by ₹1,500 crore from the ₹10,000 crore outlay promised by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This programme underscores Bhutan’s dedication to addressing its economic woes through strategic investments in free education, healthcare, and strengthening democratic governance.
A critical aspect of Bhutan’s economic landscape is the exodus of its youth, driven by the search for better opportunities abroad. By fostering a vibrant, sustainable city with ample economic prospects, the Gelephu project aims to retain talent and invigorate local economies, offering a compelling alternative to emigration.
India’s support for Bhutan’s development is unwavering, with increased contributions to Bhutan’s Five Year Plan from ₹5,000 crore to ₹10,000 crore. Out of this, ₹8,500 crore is earmarked for essential infrastructure projects such as roads, schools, and hospitals, while ₹1,500 crore is directed towards economic stimulus, particularly targeting small businesses and the tourism sector. This substantial support underscores the deep-rooted ties and mutual interests between the two nations.
Yet, the path to regional connectivity is fraught with complexities, as evidenced by Bhutan’s hesitation to join the BBIN Motor Vehicle Agreement. Concerns over local opposition and demographic impacts have led to a cautious stance, with former Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay affirming that Bhutan is not ready to revisit the agreement. This highlights the delicate balance Bhutan must maintain between advancing regional integration and addressing domestic concerns.
In conclusion, the Gelephu smart city initiative is a bold and visionary step towards regional connectivity and sustainable urban development. It embodies Bhutan’s aspirations for economic revitalization, environmental stewardship, and regional cooperation. As the project unfolds, it will undoubtedly serve as a testament to Bhutan’s resilience and ingenuity in navigating the challenges of modernity while preserving its unique cultural and environmental heritage. The success of Gelephu will not only redefine Bhutan’s economic landscape but also set a benchmark for sustainable development in the region.
