The Assam government’s ambitious plan to connect Kokrajhar in Assam with Gelephu in Bhutan is poised to bring transformative development to the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR). The initiative is expected to boost trade, tourism, and regional connectivity, paving the way for economic growth and stability in the Northeast.
Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) Chief Pramod Boro, speaking at the Advantage Assam 2.0 Investment and Infrastructure Summit 2025 in Guwahati, emphasized the importance of the project in fostering progress and lasting peace in the region. He pointed out that the initiative aligns with Bhutan’s development model, which has successfully maintained economic growth and stability over the years.
Kokrajhar-Gelephu Connectivity: A Game-Changer for Bodoland
The Kokrajhar-Gelephu connectivity project includes a proposed railway link and the construction of an all-weather road, both of which will majorly enhance cross-border trade and investment. The central government is already conducting surveys for the Kokrajhar-Gelephu rail link, which will integrate Assam’s railway network with Bhutan’s growing trade corridor.
Additionally, the planned road infrastructure will facilitate better movement of goods and services between the two regions, enabling faster transportation, increased trade, and enhanced tourism potential.
Boro expressed optimism about the economic impact of the connectivity initiative, stating:“The proposed connectivity between Kokrajhar and Gelephu has the potential to reshape the Bodoland Territorial Region. This summit serves as a platform to explore new avenues for growth and prosperity.”
Advantage Assam 2.0: A Platform for Investment & Growth
The two-day Advantage Assam 2.0 summit has already generated major investor interest in the Northeast. Pramod Boro highlighted that the summit is a crucial step in redefining Assam’s economic landscape, encouraging both domestic and foreign investments in key sectors.
Tourism is one of the major areas that could see significant growth with improved connectivity. Bodoland is rich in natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage, making it a prime location for tourism development. “Tourism is a sector brimming with potential, and I am confident that this summit will lead to major announcements to unlock new opportunities,” Boro stated.
With enhanced access to Bhutan’s famed eco-tourism destinations, the Kokrajhar-Gelephu link is expected to increase visitor footfall, benefitting local businesses and boosting employment opportunities in the hospitality sector.
Economic & Trade Benefits of Assam-Bhutan Connectivity
The improved infrastructure between Assam and Bhutan is set to revitalize trade relations between the two regions. Key benefits include:
✅ Seamless Trade: Easier transport of agricultural produce, handicrafts, and industrial goods between Assam and Bhutan.
✅ Employment Opportunities: Growth in logistics, retail, and service industries, generating jobs for locals.
✅ Investment Inflows: Attracting businesses and investors looking to tap into Bhutan’s and Northeast India’s expanding markets.
✅ Infrastructure Development: Improved roads, transport hubs, and logistics parks to support economic activity.
Strengthening India-Bhutan Ties Through Connectivity
The Assam-Bhutan project is not just about economic benefits—it is also a strategic move to strengthen diplomatic and cultural ties between India and Bhutan. The cross-border transport links will enhance people-to-people exchanges, reinforcing the historical and cultural ties between the two regions.
This project aligns with India’s Act East Policy, which aims to improve regional connectivity with Southeast Asia. Bhutan, being a crucial partner in this initiative, stands to benefit from increased accessibility and trade links with India’s Northeast.
A Transformational Step for Bodoland & Northeast India
The Kokrajhar-Gelephu connectivity project is set to transform Bodoland into a key trade and tourism hub in Northeast India. With the support of the central government, the initiative will enhance regional connectivity, drive economic growth, and position Assam as a gateway for trade with Bhutan and beyond.
BTC Chief Pramod Boro’s vision for a prosperous Bodoland, combined with government-led infrastructure projects, underscores the potential of the region to become a thriving economic zone. As the project moves forward, Bodoland is poised to emerge as a model for sustainable development and regional cooperation.
With investments pouring in and infrastructure improving, Assam’s Bodoland region is set for a new era of growth, connectivity, and prosperity.
. BTC Chief Pramod Boro highlights the economic, tourism, and trade potential of the initiative at Advantage Assam 2.0.){kind=link}