- In Myanmar
- It is a multi-modal transport project having three different stretches involving shipping, Inland Water and road transport stretches.
- Being administered by Ministry of External Affairs
- GoI is funding the project.
- Will connect Mizoram to Bay of Bengal
- Project seeks to facilitate connectivity between the mainland India and the landlocked North Eastern States through maritime shipping, inland waterways and roads of Myanmar
- The link between landlocked north eastern states and Myanmar will lead to
- Enhanced trade and commerce across the border
- Enable cultural and social integration at the regional level
- It was the first major project undertaken by the Indian government in Myanmar
- This project will reduce distance from Kolkata to Mizoram by approximately 1000 km and cut travelling time to 3-4 days for transport of goods.
Other Details (For Mains):
- Agreement was signed in 2008
- Construction began in 2010
- But inadequate funds and poor planning led to delays
- In 2015, the present government revised the budget estimates by nearly six times and has involved the State-owned Ircon Infrastructure and Services Ltd as consultant with an objective to complete the project in 2019.
- As per the terms of the framework agreement, India should also set up an SEZ at Sittwe. The setting up of SEZ at Sittwe is important to promote Indian investment in the region which has overwhelming Chinese influence.
- The completion of KMTT project will play a major role in economic development of the North-East India and it will improve the bilateral relations between India and Myanmar.
- When completed, the KMTT will shorten the current time taken to transport goods from Kolkata to Mizoram by three-four days, and the distance by around 950 km. KMMT is hailed as “Future gateway to South East Asia”
NOTE: Must use term in India-Myanmar, India-SE Asia, Act Asia, Big Brother Doctrine other similar IR related questions.