Myanmar Minister affirms unaffected Kaladan Transit Project amid Rakhine state turmoil

The Kaladan Multimodal Transit Transport Project (KMTTP), sanctioned by the Indian government in 2008 with an approved budget of Rs 3,200 crores, aims to establish a vital transportation link from the east coast of India to the northeastern states through the Sittwe Port. Its primary objective is to facilitate enhanced bilateral and regional trade.

Myanmar’s Commerce Minister, U Aung Naing Oo, recently assured that the ongoing turmoil in Rakhine state would not impede the progress of this significant project.

According to report, Minister Oo confirmed that construction of the road connecting Paletwa in Myanmar to Zorinpui in Mizoram, a vital component of the project, is proceeding at a rapid pace. He clarified that the road construction is taking place in the western part of Rakhine state, separate from the areas experiencing unrest.

He also mentioned that full-fledged operations at the Sittwe port in Rakhine, which is a key element of the KMTTP and supported by the Indian government, are set to commence shortly. The port is expected to significantly boost bilateral trade between India and Myanmar while enhancing connectivity between the two nations.