Celebrations of the 116th National Day with unprecedented fervour and enthusiasm were taken to the next level with the unveiling of the Gelephu Project, an ambitious initiative that stretches across a vast expanse of over a thousand kilometers in Gelephu, Sarpang, covering more than 250,000 acres. This project not only signals the dawn of Bhutan’s economic prosperity but also marks the beginning of a new era in the nation’s history—a fresh dream, a novel ambition.
The Gelephu Project, unveiled by His Majesty The King in his address to the nation, is poised to establish a special administrative region, destined to become Bhutan’s new economic hub. At the heart of this endeavor is the colossal opportunity to engage with approximately two billion people in the South Asia region—a region undergoing economic transformation with the potential to extend its impact into Southeast Asia. Bhutan stands at the brink of a defining moment, as expressed by His Majesty the King, who described it as “A period of awakening for South Asia, a period of growth, and a period of immense opportunities.”
His Majesty’s vision for Bhutan is clear—the nation cannot afford to remain a developing country. The resolute goal is to transform Bhutan into a developed nation, a task that, with unwavering confidence, he declared, “Yes, we will succeed.”
To achieve this audacious vision, the Gelephu Project emphasizes three key imperatives outlined by His Majesty the King. Firstly, energy generation is highlighted as the lifeblood of a thriving economy, emphasizing the importance of sustainable power sources to fuel industries and foster self-reliance. Secondly, enhanced connectivity is deemed a strategic foresight, recognizing the crucial role transportation infrastructure plays in fostering economic growth. Lastly, comprehensive national skilling is emphasized, recognizing human capital as the most valuable asset in the journey toward progress.
The Gelephu Project is a call to action for all Bhutanese citizens, urging them to contribute to the shared dream of a prosperous Bhutan by seizing the abundant opportunities that lie before them. Beyond being a venture in concrete and steel, the project symbolizes a collective endeavor that calls for unity, resilience, and innovation.
More than an economic initiative, the Gelephu Project signifies Bhutan’s unwavering resolve to shape its destiny—a destiny rooted in prosperity, sustainability, and self-reliance. The 116th National Day was not just a celebration; it was a call to action, an invitation for every Bhutanese to contribute to the tapestry of the nation’s success.
As the sun set on the 116th National Day, Bhutan embraced a new dawn—one marked by ambition, unity, and the promise of a prosperous future for generations to come.
