Kaladan Multi Modal Transit Transport Project (KMMTTP)

Rising Tensions with Bangladesh have pushed India to find alternative routes to the Northeast.

• aladan Multi Modal Transit Transport Project (KMMTTP) provides connectivity from Kolkata/Vizag to Mizoram via Myanmar, bypassing Bangladesh.
• Boosts India’s Act East Policy by strengthening ties and infrastructure with Southeast Asia.

Route Composition:

1. Kolkata to Sittwe (539 km):
   • Covered by sea via Bay of Bengal.
2. Sittwe to Paletwa (158 km):
   • Navigated via Kaladan River by boat.
3. Paletwa to Zorinpui (108 km):
   • Four-lane road through Myanmar to Indian border (Mizoram).

Domestic Connectivity:

• MoRTH approved a 166.8-km four-lane highway from Shillong to Silchar, to be extended to Zorinpui (Mizoram).
• This forms a high-speed corridor through Northeast India connecting to the KMMTTP.

Benefits:

• Reduces distance by 1,000 km between Kolkata and Mizoram.
• Saves 3–4 days of transport time.
• Eases dependency on Bangladesh for trade with Northeast.

History & Policy Context:

• Conceptualized in late 1990s, formalized in 2008 between India and Myanmar.
• A pillar of the Look East / Act East Policy to connect India’s Northeast with Southeast Asia.