India, Myanmar ink pact

Sandeep Dikshit
NEW DELHI: India and Myanmar on Wednesday decided to develop an alternative access route to the north-east.

Called the Kaladan multimodal transit transport project in Myanmar, it involves developing an alternative trade route between the two countries along the river Kaladan in Myanmar at a cost of over Rs. 550 crores. The agreement was signed by External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee and Vice Senior General Maung Aye, the number two in Myanmar’s ruling hierarchy.

Termed a project of strategic significance, the Kaladan project will not only provide an alternative access route from any part of the country to the land-locked north-eastern states but will also counter Bangladesh’s blocking of an Indian request to provide transit rights through its territory.

“Bangladesh has practically held India, especially the north-east, to ransom denying transit through its territory. The project will convey a strong message to Bangladesh that withholding transit does not mean that it leaves India without an alternative. It is strategically important to get away from Bangladesh on transit issues,” said a highly placed source.

“An alternate route is important because of the long distance involved and the severe pressure exerted on the Siliguri ,” he added.

Vessels would enter the Sittwe port from the Bay of Bengal and proceed to the furthest commercially navigable point of Kaletwa on the river Kaladan. From there goods will be taken by road to the international border.