Railway Links: Bridging India to Bhutan

The railway project connecting Kokrajhar in Assam to Gelephu in Bhutan is slated for completion in three years. While Assam progresses smoothly, the Banarhat to Samtse segment faces land acquisition hurdles. These projects aim to boost trade and tourism between the neighboring countries.

The ambitious railway project aims to strengthen connectivity between India and Bhutan, with two key railway links. The line between Kokrajhar, Assam, and Gelephu, Bhutan is expected to be completed within three years. Officials express optimism regarding the project's progress, underscoring the cooperative stance of the Assam state government.

Challenges persist with the Banarhat to Samtse stretch in West Bengal, facing slow progress due to land acquisition issues. The railway route passes through four tea gardens, complicating negotiations with the state government, which has yet to expedite the process.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw previously announced these initiatives as vital to enhancing trade, tourism, and cultural exchanges across the India-Bhutan border. The projects also aim to bolster the development of Gelephu as a ''mindfulness city'' and Samtse as an industrial hub.

(With inputs from agencies.)