India-Bhutan Rail Link: Two New Routes To Connect Assam, West Bengal With Bhutan
New Delhi, September 30, 2025 – India announced two new railway connectivity projects with Bhutan, strengthening ties with its Himalayan neighbor through better transport links.
Two New Rail Routes Announced
The government has approved two railway lines connecting Indian states with Bhutan. The first route will link Kokrajhar in Assam with Gelephu in Bhutan. The second will connect Banarhat in West Bengal with Samtse in Bhutan.
The total length of both routes is around 89 kilometers. The project will cost approximately ₹433 crore and is expected to be completed in 3 to 4 years.
Boost To Trade And Tourism
These rail links will make travel and trade much easier between the two countries. People-to-people connections will improve as traveling becomes more convenient and affordable for citizens of both nations.
Tourism is expected to get a major boost. Bhutan’s scenic destinations will become more accessible to Indian tourists, while trade in goods will become faster and cheaper through rail transport.
Strategic Importance For India
The railway projects have important strategic value for India. They help counter China’s growing influence in the region, particularly near the sensitive Siliguri Corridor, also called Chicken’s Neck.
This narrow strip of land connects northeast India to the rest of the country. Better connectivity with Bhutan strengthens India’s position in this strategically crucial area.
India’s Development Support To Bhutan
India has committed ₹1,000 crore support to Bhutan under its 13th Five-Year Plan running from 2024 to 2029. This shows India’s continued commitment to helping Bhutan’s development.
Both countries also cooperate on hydropower projects including Punatsangchhu-II, Tala, Mangdechhu, and Kurichhu. These projects help Bhutan generate electricity while India gets clean energy supply.
Additionally, the Jogighopa Inland Waterways Terminal in Assam was opened in 2024, providing another transport option connecting the two friendly neighbors through river routes.