Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal announced on Monday, July 7, that the much-anticipated Kaladan Multimodal Transit Transport Project, a key infrastructure initiative between India and Myanmar, is expected to be fully operational by 2027.
Speaking at a press conference in Guwahati, Sonowal highlighted the strategic importance of the project, particularly for the Northeast. He noted that once completed, the project will reduce the distance between Aizawl (Mizoram) and Kolkata by approximately 700 kilometers, significantly improving connectivity and trade potential.
“The Sittwe Port in Myanmar is already complete. Work is currently underway to establish road connectivity to Aizawl. We are confident the entire Kaladan project will be operational by 2027,” Sonowal said.
He further shared that the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways is investing Rs 1,000 crore into the development of waterways under the project, while other infrastructure components are being handled by additional agencies.
Emphasizing the broader vision behind the project, Sonowal stated that the Northeast region will play a critical role in revitalizing India’s economic landscape, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “transformation through transportation.”
“Our aim is to position the Northeast as a major business hub for South Asia. For that, efficient waterway connectivity will be vital,” he added.
The Kaladan Multimodal Transit Transport Project was jointly conceived by India and Myanmar to establish a seamless transport network that facilitates cargo movement from India’s eastern ports to the Northeast via Myanmar. The project integrates sea, river, and road transport, offering a strategic trade route through Southeast Asia and reducing dependence on the narrow Siliguri corridor.
