Expanding Connectivity: Northeast India’s Gateway to the World
Northeast Indian states have long struggled with limited access to cost-effective seaports, making imports and exports a cumbersome and expensive affair. However, recent developments in connectivity projects with Bangladesh are set to revolutionize trade in the region.
Northeast Indian states have long struggled with limited access to cost-effective seaports, making imports and exports a cumbersome and expensive affair. However, recent developments in connectivity projects with Bangladesh are set to revolutionize trade in the region.
Boosting Trade Through Bangladesh
In a bid to boost economic growth and industrialization in the landlocked region, politicians, business bodies, and state governments of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura are emphasizing the importance of enhancing connectivity, transit, and trade with Bangladesh.
The use of Chattogram and Mongla ports in Bangladesh has opened up new possibilities for the northeastern states, significantly reducing the time and costs associated with transporting goods from Kolkata, which is more than 1,200 km away.
The Gateway to Southeast Countries
Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha envisions Tripura becoming the gateway to Southeast Asian countries by utilizing Chattogram Port in Bangladesh. With the inauguration of the Maitri Setu bridge over the Feni River, direct access to Chattogram Port will open up exciting opportunities for business and trade in the region.
Rail Link: A Game Changer
The Indo-Bangladesh railway project connecting Bangladesh's Gangasagar station with Agartala railway station is expected to be a game changer for trade and connectivity in the region. Once operational, the 32-hour train journey from Agartala to Kolkata will be reduced to just 10 hours, boosting trade, business, investment, and people's movement in the northeastern states.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
Dhaka and New Delhi have been working closely on implementing various bilateral and sub-regional initiatives to enhance trade and connectivity. The recent inauguration of infrastructure projects, including the Agartala-Akhaura cross-border rail link and Khulna-Mongla rail line, highlights the commitment of both countries to fostering stronger ties.
Expanding Riverine Routes
Bangladesh and India are exploring the development of an Eastern Grid with 5,000 km of navigable waterways to deepen trade relations within the region. By linking National Waterway (NW)-1, NW-2, and NW-16, an economic corridor connecting the northeast with the rest of India via Bangladesh is in the works.
Road Connectivity Challenges
While significant progress has been made in enhancing connectivity between India and Bangladesh, some road projects, such as the Cumilla-Brahmanbaria road project, are facing delays in funding and implementation. Fast-tracking these projects is crucial to ensuring seamless cross-border connectivity.
Air Connectivity Initiatives
India has approved four new air routes connecting the northeastern states with international destinations, including Dhaka and Chattogram, under the Udan project. This initiative aims to improve regional air connectivity and facilitate travel for passengers in the region.
In conclusion, the ongoing efforts to boost connectivity with Bangladesh are poised to transform trade and economic prospects for northeast India. By leveraging strategic partnerships and infrastructure development, the region is well-positioned to emerge as a key player in the global trade arena.
Hi, Ali Rahman in the house! From Chittagong, Bangladesh, I've been on a wild ride from Banskhali Bangabandhu High School to Govt. Alaol College and beyond, landing me at National University. Now, I'm here to dish out the lowdown on national issues and global news. Stick around for a fresh take on what's shaking up our world! Connect With Me