Kokrajhar, Aug 08: The potential railway link between Assam’s Kokrajhar and Bhutan’s Gelephu marks an exciting development in India-Bhutan relations. India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, announced ongoing talks between the two nations to establish this railway connection, which is expected to strengthen trade and tourism ties.
In his address to the media, Jaishankar acknowledged the challenges posed by Myanmar’s internal situation on infrastructure projects, including the ambitious trilateral highway initiative involving India, Myanmar, and Thailand. The trilateral highway aims to enhance regional connectivity and promote economic growth in the region. However, the current situation in Myanmar has impacted the progress of some segments, including the construction of 69 bridges.
Highlighting the significance of enhancing trade and tourism with Bhutan, Jaishankar emphasized the Modi Government’s focus on border infrastructure and connectivity development since 2014. The proposed Gelephu-Kokrajhar railway link on the Assam border could play a crucial role in boosting economic ties between the two countries.
The minister also discussed connectivity initiatives with Bangladesh, highlighting the potential benefits of operationalizing the Chattogram and Mongla ports for the Northeastern states and West Bengal. Various measures have been taken to facilitate people-to-people contacts, such as operational bus services, cross-border passenger train services, and inland waterway routes.
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India’s efforts to shape the energy landscape in the region were also highlighted, including the supply of power to Nepal and power generation at the Indian-built Maitri plant. The focus on rail, road, border facilitation, electricity transmission, and fuel supply with neighboring countries under India’s “neighbourhood first” policy aims to foster stronger regional ties.
Regarding Nepal, Jaishankar provided updates on connectivity developments, including the establishment of integrated check posts (ICPs) at various border points and significant enhancements in rail connectivity between India and Nepal.
In Sri Lanka, agreements have been reached for ferry services between Nagapattinam-Kankesanthurai and Rameshwaram-Talaimannar, while flight services between Chennai and Jaffna have already commenced.
The minister concluded by highlighting the overall improvements in border infrastructure and connectivity across India’s borders. These developments have not only contributed to enhanced national security but also opened up new economic opportunities and improved the quality of life in border areas.
The India-Bhutan railway link between Kokrajhar and Gelephu represents a promising step towards fostering stronger ties between the two neighboring nations. The project is expected to have a positive impact on trade, tourism, and regional connectivity, bringing mutual benefits for both countries.
Bhutan and India share a long-standing friendship and have been committed to enhancing bilateral relations in various domains. This railway link holds the potential to further strengthen economic and cultural ties between the two nations and promote people-to-people interactions.
The proposed railway link will provide a crucial transportation route, facilitating the movement of goods and people between the two regions. It will create new opportunities for trade and business collaborations, encouraging investments and economic growth on both sides of the border.
Moreover, improved connectivity through the railway link will boost tourism, as it will become easier for travelers to explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Bhutan from Assam and vice versa. This can lead to an increase in tourist footfall and revenue for both regions.
Furthermore, the project aligns with India’s broader vision of improving regional connectivity and strengthening its relationships with neighboring countries. The development of such infrastructure projects promotes peace, stability, and economic growth in the region.
The India-Bhutan railway link is also expected to have positive environmental implications. As an eco-friendly mode of transportation, railways are known to be more sustainable than other means, such as road transport. By encouraging the use of railways for cross-border trade and travel, both countries can contribute to reducing carbon emissions and mitigating the impact of climate change.
However, it is essential to address potential challenges and concerns related to the project. Environmental impact assessments should be conducted to ensure that the railway construction and operation do not harm the delicate ecosystems in the region. Additionally, measures should be taken to protect and preserve the cultural heritage and local communities along the railway route.
India and Bhutan must work closely together to ensure the successful implementation of the railway link. It will require collaboration on various fronts, such as funding, technology transfer, and skilled labor. The governments of both countries should actively engage with each other to overcome any hurdles and expedite the project’s completion.
The India-Bhutan railway link is a testament to the strong friendship and cooperation between the two nations. It represents a strategic move to strengthen regional ties, promote economic growth, and foster people-to-people connections. As the project moves forward, it holds the promise of a brighter and more prosperous future for both India and Bhutan.
