Overview

• An inter-governmental MoU in New Delhi formally launched two electrified lines—Kokrajhar–Gelephu (~69–70 km) and Banarhat–Samtse (~19–20 km)—totalling about 89 km.
• The projects carry a combined outlay of roughly Rs 4,033 crore, with Indian Railways funding works in India and the MEA financing Bhutan’s segments from the Rs 10,000 crore support for Bhutan’s 13th Plan.
• Both routes are planned for passenger and freight services with Vande Bharat–capable standards and modern signalling.
• Completion targets are about four years for Kokrajhar–Gelephu and about three years for Banarhat–Samtse, with construction to commence following approvals.
• Engineering plans include multiple stations and bridges with environmental safeguards, and officials said the links support Gelephu’s Mindfulness City and Samtse’s industrial growth while involving no third country along the routes.