India must look beyond Bangladesh. Kaladan corridor is key

As geopolitical tensions rise in South Asia, the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project (KMTTP) emerges as a critical initiative for enhancing connectivity and trade. With recent civil unrest in Bangladesh affecting trade routes, India is urged to reassess the KMTTP to ensure seamless access to its northeastern states. This project not only promises to bolster regional ties but also serves as a vital alternative to the congested Siliguri corridor.

Importance of Regional Connectivity

India’s influence in South Asia is evolving, transitioning from a dominant power to a regional integrator. This shift emphasizes the importance of mutual cooperation, trade, and infrastructure development among neighboring countries. Initiatives like the BBIN and BIMSTEC frameworks highlight the growing interdependence among South and Southeast Asian nations. The focus on physical connectivity—spanning railways, highways, and inland waterways—has never been more critical. Countries like Nepal and Bhutan are now benefiting from access to Indian markets, while new rail links between India and Bangladesh have strengthened bilateral relations.

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However, the recent political upheaval in Bangladesh, marked by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation amid widespread protests, has strained these relations. The interim government led by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has faced challenges that have disrupted trade and joint projects. As a result, existing trade corridors have been affected, and ongoing infrastructure projects aimed at improving transit routes to India’s northeastern states are currently stalled. This situation necessitates a reevaluation of alternative routes, particularly the KMTTP, which could provide a vital lifeline for trade and connectivity.

Reassessing the Kaladan Project

The KMTTP, which has been in the pipeline for nearly two decades, is designed to facilitate a shorter transit route for goods from India’s eastern ports to the northeastern states of Mizoram, Tripura, and Manipur. The project involves a multi-modal corridor that connects Kolkata to Sittwe Port in Myanmar, utilizing both road and inland waterway transport. Despite significant progress, including the recent operationalization of Sittwe Port, the project has faced delays due to various factors, including civil unrest in the region.

To maximize the benefits of the KMTTP, India must prioritize the completion of the road link from Paletwa to the Indo-Myanmar border and establish a rail connection from Aizawl to Sittwe. This would enable bulk movement of goods and enhance the efficiency of cargo handling, ultimately reducing transit times. The KMTTP’s potential to streamline trade routes is crucial, especially in light of the current geopolitical uncertainties affecting traditional corridors through Bangladesh.

As India navigates these challenges, the KMTTP stands out as a strategic initiative that can foster economic growth and regional integration. By investing in this project and ensuring its timely completion, India can strengthen its ties with Myanmar and enhance connectivity with Southeast Asia, paving the way for a more prosperous future for its northeastern states.