The Governor of Assam, Lakshman Prasad Acharya, inaugurated the Integrated Check Post Darranga today in the presence of the Prime Minister of Bhutan, H.E. Dasho Tshering Tobgay. This key infrastructure is positioned approximately 700 meters from the Bhutan border in Tamulpur, Assam. This new check post is a testament to the Government’s commitment to fostering cross-border economic interactions and strengthening ties with neighbouring countries.
In his address, Lakshman Prasad Acharya praised the establishment of ICP Darranga as a crucial step in enhancing cross-border trade and travel, which will drive economic growth and further solidify the cultural and economic bonds between India and Bhutan. The cross-border trade strengthens the cultural and economic ties between Bhutan and India, benefiting both nations and enriching the local economy, he said. He also added that with ongoing development and industrial capacity expansion, the port is poised to become a cornerstone in the relationship between the two nations.
The Prime Minister of Bhutan Dasho Tshering Tobgay in his address said that this is a momentous occasion for both the country. He said that this initiative will help in building people-to-people contact through tourism and business exchanges. He expressed his heartfelt gratitude towards the Government of India and the state of Assam for the constant support in building a strong Indo-Bhutan relationship. Indicating the growth of both countries the Prime Minister said that friendship grows stronger when friends prosper together.
Addressing the gathering Bandi Sanjay Kumar, MoS Ministry of Home Affairs said that Darranga ICP shows India’s commitment towards its neighbours and this initiative will streamline the economic and infrastructural development between the two countries.
Pabitra Margherita, MoS, Ministry of External Affairs in his speech asserted that the inauguration of ICP Darranga aims to streamline the movement of nationals of both countries which will further strengthen the ties between India and Bhutan. He said that it is a privilege for India to be a partner of Bhutan’s development. India is a top trading partner with Bhutan and with this initiative, the relationship will only grow stronger.
The inauguration ceremony saw the esteemed presence of other dignitaries including Chandra Mohan Patowary, Minister for Act East Policy Affairs Department, Government of Assam and Dr Rajendra Kumar, Secretary of Border Management, Ministry of Home Affairs who highlighted the importance of the Land Port Darranga in Assam’s strategic connectivity with Bhutan.
ICP Darranga, sprawling across 14.5 acres, is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including an office complex, parking areas, loading and unloading zones, a weighbridge, a warehouse, and residential quarters for officials. The port also features inspection spaces, plant quarantine systems, and parking facilities to ensure efficient operations. It manages two Bhutanese check posts: Samdrup-Jongkhar and Mottanga, further facilitating smooth cross-border movement.
The strategic location of Darranga is complemented by its excellent connectivity. On the Indian side, it is well-connected to National Highway 27 near Rangia, while on the Bhutanese side, robust customs infrastructure at Samdrup-Jongkhar ensures efficient trade. Ongoing improvements to the highway from Samdrup-Jongkhar to Tashigang are expected to further enhance connectivity and trade prospects.
The inauguration of ICP Darranga marks a significant milestone in the Modi Government’s vision for a connected and prosperous region, promising to enrich the lives of countless individuals and communities across the border.
