Assam-Bhutan railway link: A game-changer for trade, tourism & Bodoland’s future

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaMarch 1, 2025

In a historic move to boost regional connectivity and strengthen India-Bhutan ties, Indian Railways has announced a transformative railway project linking Assam with Bhutan. The proposed Kokrajhar-Gelephu railway line is set to redefine cross-border trade, tourism, and economic opportunities in the region.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw unveiled the ambitious project at the Advantage Assam 2.0 Investment and Infrastructure Summit in Guwahati on February 25. The 69.04 km railway line, estimated at Rs 3,500 crores, will connect Kokrajhar in Assam to Gelephu in Bhutan, marking Bhutan’s first-ever railway link.

The project includes the construction of six new stations—Balajan, Garubhasa, Runikhata, Shantipur, Dadgiri, and Gelephu—along with extensive infrastructure development. Plans feature two major bridges, 29 key bridges, 65 minor bridges, a Road Over Bridge, 39 Road Under Bridges, and two viaducts. The Final Location Survey (FLS) is complete, and the Detailed Project Report (DPR) has been submitted for approval.

Highlighting the significance of the railway line, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said, “This project will position Bodoland as a key trade and transit hub, revolutionizing business and connectivity for local communities.” He emphasized that the entire landscape of Kokrajhar and the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) will witness a transformation, as Bhutan’s government is developing Gelephu into a mega city.

The Assam-Bhutan railway link is poised to open new economic corridors, facilitate seamless transportation, and enhance cultural exchange, paving the way for long-term prosperity in the region.