Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project (KMTTP)
Why it Matters?
Modi Govt plans ₹5,000-crore investment to develop Northeast waterways with Kaladan project, community jetties, and maritime skill hubs for regional economic integration and Act East connectivity.
What You Should Know?
It is a multi-modal connectivity project jointly identified by India and Myanmar.
It aims to connect Kolkata Port (India) to Lawngtlai in Mizoram (India) via Myanmar through sea, river, and road.
Four Stages of the Project:
Kolkata to Sittwe Port (Myanmar) via the Bay of Bengal
Sittwe to Paletwa (Myanmar) via Kaladan River
Paletwa to Zorinpui (India–Myanmar Border)
Zorinpui to Lawngtlai (Mizoram)
The project offers an alternative route to Northeast India, bypassing the Siliguri Corridor.
It was approved by the Union Cabinet in 2008.
The project is funded by India’s grant assistance to Myanmar due to its strategic and political importance.
The project is a result of the India-Myanmar Friendship Treaty and forms a part of India’s Act East Policy.
It is expected to be fully operational by 2027.
The major export cargo from Myanmar is Rice, Timber, Fish/Seafood, Petroleum Products, and Textiles.
The major import cargo to Myanmar is Cement, Steel, Bricks, and Construction Materials.