India is accelerating major railway projects to connect Sikkim and Bhutan with the national rail network, with services targeted to begin by 2027 and 2029 respectively. The proposed 69-km Kokrajhar–Gelephu international rail link, estimated at around ₹3,500 crore, has been granted special project status to speed up land acquisition and forest clearances. The line is expected to strengthen trade, tourism and civilian connectivity while providing a direct rail link to Bhutan’s planned Gelephu Mindfulness City.
At the same time, work on the 44.96-km Sivok–Rangpo rail project in Sikkim is reportedly nearing completion. With around 86–90% of the route passing through tunnels, the project is designed to provide all-weather connectivity to the strategically important state. A major feature is the underground Teesta Bazaar railway station, being developed beneath the Teesta River corridor. With an estimated cost of ₹12,450 crore, safety trials and train operations are targeted for December 2027. Beyond passenger and tourism benefits, the projects are expected to improve strategic mobility and logistics along India’s sensitive northern and northeastern borders.
