Kokrajhar (Assam), 17 July (HS): The proposed 69.04-km Kokrajhar–Gelephu railway line is poised to become a landmark infrastructure project with far-reaching implications for development, cross-border connectivity, tourism and international trade between India and Bhutan. Estimated at ₹3,500 crore, the project will establish Bhutan's first-ever railway connection, linking Gelephu directly with India's railway network through Kokrajhar in Assam.

The railway corridor will pass through Assam's Kokrajhar and Chirang districts before entering Bhutan via a 2.4-km stretch inside Bhutanese territory. Six stations have been planned along the route—Balajan, Garubhasa, Runikhata, Shantipur, Dadgiri and Gelephu. The line will also include 29 major bridges, 65 minor bridges, two viaducts, and AI-enabled thermal camera systems to safeguard elephant corridors.

The project is expected to significantly strengthen India–Bhutan economic ties by reducing transportation costs and enabling faster movement of goods across the border. Improved logistics are likely to enhance bilateral trade, encourage industrial investment and facilitate the export and import of agricultural produce, construction materials and manufactured goods.

Beyond trade, the railway is expected to provide a major boost to tourism, making travel to Bhutan more accessible for Indian visitors while encouraging greater people-to-people exchanges. The improved transport network is also expected to create new opportunities for businesses, hospitality, transport services and local entrepreneurs in western Assam.

The rail link is expected to accelerate the development of the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) by improving connectivity, attracting investments and generating employment during both the construction and operational phases. Enhanced infrastructure is also expected to support the emergence of Gelephu as a key regional economic hub.

Declared a Special Railway Project to facilitate faster land acquisition and implementation, construction is scheduled to commence in the first quarter of 2027, marking a significant step towards deeper regional integration and stronger cross-border cooperation between India and Bhutan.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash