The newly established Immigration Terminal at Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) has officially opened, allowing eligible Bhutanese and Indian nationals to use automated e-gates for immigration clearance. This facility, inaugurated by Governor Dasho Dr Lotay Tshering, aims to streamline border crossings between Bhutan and India. The event was attended by various officials and guests, marking a significant step in enhancing cross-border movement.

The terminal is part of GMC’s broader infrastructure development, which is designed to accommodate the increasing number of individuals travelling between the two nations. Governor Tshering emphasised the terminal’s role in maintaining records of cross-border movements and enhancing security measures. He stated that it will facilitate better monitoring of people crossing the border.

During the inauguration, the Governor highlighted that the terminal is not merely a physical structure but a vital component in improving immigration processes. The introduction of biometric verification aims to reduce waiting times and make border crossings more efficient.

Service Fees and Infrastructure Development

Governor Tshering announced that a nominal service fee would be implemented for using the new terminal. He acknowledged that the introduction of a fee might not be welcomed by everyone, but he urged the public to understand that maintaining high-quality facilities and providing efficient services necessitates financial resources. The Governor expressed hope for public cooperation in this endeavour.

In addition to the terminal, India is actively working on railway links to enhance connectivity between the two countries. The Kokrajhar-Gelephu railway line has been designated as a Special Railway Project, which will expedite clearances and land acquisition processes. The Ministry of Railways in India will finance the construction on its side, while the Government of India will support the Bhutanese segment as part of Bhutan’s 13th Five-Year Plan.

Two key railway links have been identified: the 69 km Kokrajhar-Gelephu line, connecting Assam to Bhutan, and the 20 km Banarhat-Samtse line, linking West Bengal with Bhutan. These projects, estimated at Rs 4,033 crores, are expected to significantly enhance trade, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges between the nations.

Future Plans for the Terminal and Gelephu Mindfulness City

The terminal currently serves Bhutanese and Indian nationals, with plans to accommodate third-country nationals in the future, in coordination with the relevant Indian authorities. The e-gates will verify a traveller’s identity against their registered biometric data, allowing eligible individuals to complete immigration clearance without the need for manual processing. Those who have not registered their biometrics will continue to be processed at staffed counters.

Gelephu Mindfulness City is recognised as a unique interpretation of modern urban life, as envisioned by His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the King of Bhutan. Since its announcement two years ago, GMC has been developing rapidly, with the construction of a world-class international airport and significant spiritual establishments underway. International investors are also beginning to engage in major projects within the city.

On February 21, 2026, His Majesty the King announced an ambitious initiative to construct 108 Jangchub Chorten (stupas of enlightenment) in a single day. This project, described as a sacred gesture of peace, aims to showcase unity and commitment among the people of Bhutan. Each chorten will be 15 metres tall and positioned 108 metres apart along the Mau chhu River, creating a procession rather than a cluster of monuments.

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