Context:
Recently, Bhutan’s King has announced plans to build a massive “international city” in an area of over 1,000 sq. km. on its border with Assam. This project is known as the Gelephu Project.
Relevance:
Facts for Prelims
Gelephu Smart City Project: Key Highlights
Economic Corridor and Connectivity:
- Positioned as an economic corridor linking South Asia with Southeast Asia through India’s northeastern states.
Environmental Sustainability:
- Emphasis on adhering to environmental standards and sustainability goals, with a focus on attracting quality investment from specially screened international companies.
Industry Focus:
- Inclusion of “zero emission” industries and the development of a “mindfulness city,” capitalizing on Bhutan’s strengths in tourism and wellness.
- Integration of infrastructure companies as part of the project.
Special Administrative Region:
- Designation as a “Special Administrative Region” with distinct laws to facilitate increased international investment.
Significance for Bhutan and South Asia:
- Project envisioned as a “point of inflection” and a transformative initiative for both Bhutan and the broader South Asian region.
India-Bhutan Railway Construction:
- The Government of India commits to constructing the first India-Bhutan railway line to Gelephu.
Connectivity Beyond Borders:
- The railway project includes connectivity with roadways and border trading points extending into Assam and West Bengal.
- This connectivity aims to provide Bhutan access to Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, and Singapore, enhancing regional trade and collaboration.
-Source: The Hindu
