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Introduction

The recently announced India–Bhutan cross-border railway projects ((Kokrajhar (Assam) to Gelephu (Bhutan) and Banarhat (West Bengal) to Samtse (Bhutan)) mark a significant milestone in bilateral ties. They enhance connectivity, economic cooperation, and strategic depth. These projects are a response to evolving regional geopolitics, offering developmental gains while addressing India’s strategic concerns vis-à-vis China’s growing influence in South Asia.

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Significance of India–Bhutan Cross-Border Railway Projects

• Strategic Strengthening of India–Bhutan Ties: Enhances India’s influence in Bhutan, a key neighbour without diplomatic ties to China.
  Eg: The projects reinforce Bhutan’s alignment with India amid Chinese outreach in South Asia.
• Boost to Economic Development: Enhances bilateral trade, strengthens tourism, and generates employment opportunities in both nations.
  Eg: Reduced transport costs, smoother movement of goods, and increased tourism will stimulate economic activity in Bhutan and India’s Northeast.
• Improved Regional Connectivity: Links Northeast India with Bhutan, integrating remote areas.
  Eg: Kokrajhar–Gelephu and Banarhat–Samtse lines will enhance movement of people and goods across borders.
• Geopolitical and Security Advantage: Provides strategic infrastructure near the “Chicken’s Neck” corridor, aiding troop and resource mobility.
  Eg: Enhances rapid deployment capability along vulnerable border zones near China.
• Counter to China’s Regional Influence: Demonstrates India’s proactive approach against China’s Belt and Road investments in South Asia.
  

Major Challenges in Implementation

• Geographical and Engineering Challenges: Difficult terrain and ecological sensitivity of Himalayan regions make construction complex.
  Eg: Bhutan’s mountainous landscape requires costly tunnels and bridges.
• Financial and Resource Constraints: High cost (~₹4,000 crore) and budgetary limitations may affect timely completion.
  Eg: Balu-Haldibari railway faced delays due to funding gaps.
• Environmental and Social Concerns: Large-scale railway projects risk deforestation, habitat loss, and displacement of communities.
  Eg: The Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project faced local opposition over forest clearance and displacement issues
• Bilateral Coordination and Regulatory Hurdles: Smooth execution demands strong cooperation on land acquisition, permits, and customs procedures.
  Eg: Varying land laws and approval timelines between India and Bhutan could delay the Kokrajhar–Gelephu rail link.
• Security Risks: Infrastructure near sensitive borders may face strategic threats.
  Eg: Rail lines close to the “Chicken’s Neck” corridor require enhanced surveillance to prevent sabotage or espionage.

Conclusion

The India–Bhutan railway initiative reflects a strategic vision balancing developmental gains with geopolitical imperatives. While it promises to deepen ties and enhance connectivity, its success hinges on overcoming aforesaid challenges through sustained cooperation, innovation, and strategic foresight.

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