Bhutan’s First Railway Link: Indian Railways Finalizes Project Report
Bhutan
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India is set to strengthen its connectivity with Bhutan as Indian Railways has completed the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the country’s first-ever railway link. The project, estimated at $6.7 billion, has cleared the approval stage, according to a spokesperson from the Northeast Frontier Railway.
India-Bhutan Rail Connectivity Moves Forward
The railway line will connect Assam’s Kokrajhar to Bhutan’s Gelephu, marking a significant milestone in cross-border infrastructure. Alongside the proposal submission, a comprehensive survey of the terrain and starting points for construction has been conducted. Gelephu’s infrastructure development is expected to cost approximately ₹3,500 crores.
Railway Expansion & Infrastructure Development
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The project includes six new railway stations, bringing the total to eleven.
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Newly proposed stations: Balajan, Garubhasa, and Shantipur.
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31 major bridges, 65 minor bridges, and 2 viaducts are part of the construction plan to ensure smooth connectivity and cost efficiency.
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A new overpass bridge in Shantipur is also included in the project.
Boost to Trade, Tourism & Economic Growth
The Bhutan-India railway link is expected to:
✅ Enhance trade and commerce in the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR).
✅ Strengthen tourism and cultural exchange between the two nations.
✅ Support local businesses and economic growth through improved connectivity.
Strategic Importance Aligned with India's Policies
The proposed railway project aligns with India’s ‘Act East Policy’ and ‘Neighbourhood First Policy’, reinforcing its commitment to regional development and international cooperation.
With the final survey completed, the project is now awaiting further approvals before construction begins. Direct flights and stringent trade measures between Bhutan and India, along with the new railway link, will foster stronger economic and diplomatic ties between the neighboring countries.
