The meeting's purpose was to evaluate the condition of the roads and highways that link the two regions...
Digital Desk: Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma convened a meeting with officials from the Public Works Department (PWD) and other relevant departments on Thursday to improve connectivity between Assam and Bhutan.
The meeting's purpose was to evaluate the condition of the roads and highways that link the two regions and to provide instructions for their upkeep and repair.
Chief Minister Sarma emphasized the significance of maintaining these thoroughfares to the highest standard, highlighting their critical role in boosting tourism and economic growth on both sides. The instruction is in line with the overarching goal of improving connectivity to enable smooth trade and travel between Bhutan and Assam.
This program follows a significant announcement in August 2023 by Dr. S. Jaishankar, the Minister of External Affairs regarding a ground-breaking rail link between Bhutan and Assam, Dr. Jaishankar disclosed that the Indian government is now holding talks with the Bhutanese government. When discussing the possible advantages, he stressed Bhutan's desire to expand its tourism offerings and the advantages the rail link would bring to Assam.
With completion expected by 2026, the projected railway connection will establish the first-ever train connection between India and Bhutan. The project, which stretches 57 kilometers, is expected to have full financial support from the Indian government. To shed light on Bhutan's viewpoint, the country's government prioritizes the initial development of this railway link, according to a statement made in April by Foreign Minister Dr. Tandi Dorji. Following its completion, attention will turn to adding connectivity to other important areas, such as Samtse, Phuentsholing, Nganglam, and Samdrupjongkhar.
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