India and Bhutan, two culturally rich neighbouring nations, are on the brink of establishing their first-ever railway connection, supported by the Indian Railways. This significant rail link will seamlessly connect Kokrajhar in Assam with Gelephu in Bhutan, marking a historic milestone in the partnership between these two countries.
For the landlocked Himalayan kingdom, this railway link will be a transformative step forward. Indian Railways has successfully completed a detailed project report (DPR), which outlines the plans for constructing the railway tracks from Kokrajhar to Gelephu. According to a spokesperson from the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), the crucial final location survey for this ambitious project has been already wrapped up, and the approval of the DPR is now awaited.
Spanning a distance of 69.04 kms, this new railway line represents a vital conduit for enhancing trade and fostering deeper economic ties between India and Bhutan. Speaking to media, NFR spokesperson highlighted the immense significance of this railway line, emphasising that it will greatly enhance India-Bhutan relations by streamlining trade routes and opening up new avenues for tourism.
The railway line will also establish the Bodoland Territorial Region as a key trade and transit hub, benefiting local businesses and communities. The spokesperson additionally stated that the proposed railway line aligns with the Prime Minister's vision of the 'Act East Policy' and the 'Neighbourhood First Policy.'
The spokesperson for the NFR said the proposed railway line will connect the Kokrajhar station in Assam to Gelephu in Bhutan, with an estimated cost of INR 3,500 crore. The project will also include the development of six new stations: Balajan, Garubhasa, Runikhata, Shantipur, Dadgiri, and Gelephu. The infrastructure plan encompasses several significant features, including two major bridges, 29 smaller bridges, 65 minor bridges, one road overbridge, 39 road underbridges, and two viaducts, each measuring 11 metres in length.
