(MENAFN) India is set to construct two railway lines that will connect it with the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, announced Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri during a press conference on Monday.

This initiative represents the inaugural rail connectivity projects between the two neighboring nations.

The combined length of these railway tracks will be approximately 89 kilometers, with an estimated cost of $474 million to New Delhi.

These lines will connect key urban centers in Bhutan with the Indian states of Assam and West Bengal. India remains Bhutan’s leading trade partner, accounting for close to 80% of Bhutan’s overall trade volume.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for these railway projects was signed in March 2024, coinciding with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Bhutan.

Subsequently, a formal agreement was finalized during the Bhutanese foreign secretary’s visit to New Delhi on Monday.

“These projects are part of our broader efforts to enhance connectivity between the two countries and will strengthen economic and people-to-people linkages,” stated Misri, emphasizing the importance of the railway lines in fostering closer ties.

India’s Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted that these new rail connections will provide Bhutan access to India’s extensive 93,205-mile railway network.

He also noted that since the majority of Bhutan’s trade is routed through Indian ports, establishing smooth rail connectivity is essential for expanding Bhutan’s economy and improving its integration with global trade routes.

MENAFN01102025000045017167ID1110136634