Bhutan Earthquake Update: A 5.3 magnitude quake near Punakha shook Thimphu, Paro and multiple Dzongkhags, with residents reporting swaying buildings and people rushing outdoors; authorities are assessing damage and no major casualties were reported so far. Tourism Operations: Bhutan’s Home Minister said the government is working to address tourist permit delays at Phuentsholing, after MPs raised concerns about long queues for SDF payments and entry formalities. Cross-Border Travel Links: Sri Lanka has waived tourist visa fees for 40 countries, but Bangladesh is excluded—while India, Nepal and Pakistan are included—affecting regional travel planning. Tourism Partnerships: Thailand and Bhutan completed reciprocal familiarisation trips under “Two Kingdoms, One Destination,” focusing on wellness, culture, sustainability and high-value itineraries. Conservation & Tourism: BTFEC marked World Environment Day in Gelephu with new grant agreements supporting red panda tourism and elephant habitat enhancement, plus monitoring tools for human-wildlife conflict. Regional Connectivity: India will fully fund the Kokrajhar–Gelephu railway link (Nu 34.5B), a major boost for Bhutan’s trade and tourism access via Assam. Travel Safety Reminder: A general earthquake preparedness guide circulated alongside the Bhutan tremors, urging “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” and safe outdoor movement.