The construction of Kokrajhar-Gelephu railway link is set to begin in the first quarter of 2027 and is expected to enhance connectivity between India and Bhutan. The project is funded by the Government of India and will be Bhutan’s first link to India’s vast rail network.

Mr. Ashwini Vaishnaw, India Railway Minister, stated on 2 February 2026 that India has allocated INR11,486 crore (approximately $126.58 million) for railway projects in India's northeastern states. Mr. Vaishnaw previously stated that approximately 70 kilometers of new track will be constructed for the Kokrajhar–Gelephu line, which will connect to Bongaigaon, an industrial hub in India. The line will also give Bhutan access to 150,000 kilometers of India's rail network.

The planned rail will be equipped with detection technology and artificial intelligence-thermal cameras to ensure the safety of elephants passing through wildlife corridors.

India Prime Minister Modi said in November 2025 that two major railway projects, Kokrajhar–Gelephu and Banarhat–Samtse, set to connect Bhutan to India’s rail network, will ease trade and travel between the two countries.

• Northeast gets Rs 11,486 crore rail budget push; Kokrajhar-Gelephu link in focus
• Railway Links: Bridging India to Bhutan
• Construction of Gelephu-Kokrajhar railway to begin next year