How Bhutan’s Gelephu Mindfulness City Will Benefit Assam? Here’s What CM Himanta Biswa Sarma Has To Say

CM Sarma has announced the commencement of significant infrastructure projects that aim to strengthen the region's connectivity and economic potential

The Gelephu Mindfulness Project will not only be a game-changer for Bhutan but also for neighbouring Assam which is gearing up to cash in on the mega investments. This was revealed by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma while responding to a query by Northeast Live Editor-in-Chief Wasbir Hussain on the significance of the upcoming project across the border.

Significantly, CM Sarma has announced the commencement of significant infrastructure projects that aim to strengthen the region’s connectivity and economic potential.

On his recent visit to Bhutan, CM revealed plans for a railway track and a six-lane highway between Bongaigaon and Gelephu, which are expected to commence once the necessary approvals are obtained. These developments aim to bolster economic ties between Assam and Bhutan while complementing Bhutan’s ambitious Gelephu Mindfulness City project.

During his visit, CM Sarma highlighted the transformative vision behind Gelephu Mindfulness City, a billion-dollar initiative spearheaded by Bhutan’s King. The city will host an international airport and attract global elites, including some of the world’s wealthiest individuals. His Majesty emphasised that while Gelephu would cater to high-end luxury living, Assam could play a crucial role as an investment hub.

The King envisions Assam as a complementary market to Gelephu. “The richest people might stay in Gelephu, but they could invest across the border in Assam,” CM Sarma shared, adding that Assam and Bhutan could form a synergistic partnership rather than competing with each other.

The Chief Minister announced that a railway line connecting Guwahati to Gelephu via Kokrajhar is under active consideration, potentially featuring luxury trains like the Vande Bharat Express. He also confirmed that a six-lane highway linking Bongaigaon and Gelephu is in the planning stages. These projects are expected to improve connectivity and create seamless transit for tourists and investors between the two regions.

With Guwahati Airport’s upcoming upgrade to match the world-class facilities planned for Gelephu Airport, the region is poised to become a key gateway for international visitors. “This connectivity will ensure that whoever visits Gelephu will also explore Guwahati and the surrounding areas,” CM Sarma remarked.

CM Sarma also discussed Bhutan’s offer to share its water resources with Assam for irrigation and electricity generation projects. Bhutan’s commitment to sustainable development could enable Assam to address its irrigation needs and explore renewable energy opportunities. The Chief Minister described this collaboration as a landmark initiative that could benefit both regions in the long term.

Bhutan’s plans to expand its export routes through Assam further underscore the growing partnership. The King has expressed interest in using Assam’s land ports, such as Golokganj, for trade with Bangladesh, thereby reducing dependence on traditional routes through Bengal. This shift could stimulate economic activity in Assam’s border areas.

The visit to Bhutan has opened new avenues for cooperation between Assam and Bhutan, with long-term plans that go beyond immediate developmental needs. CM Sarma acknowledged the encouragement of External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar in creating a 30-year vision for regional development.

As Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and the Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay prepare to visit Assam in 2025, both regions are poised to deepen their partnership. The combined efforts in infrastructure, trade, and resource sharing promise a brighter future for Assam and Bhutan, fostering sustainable development and mutual prosperity.

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