Q. With reference to the Kaladan Multimodal Project, consider the following statements:
1.It aims to create a dedicated freight corridor for transporting goods between India and Bangladesh.
2.It will reduce the need to transport goods through the narrow Siliguri corridor.
3.It will strengthen India’s Act East Policy.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Explanation –
Statement 1 is incorrect. The Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project was jointly identified by India and Myanmar to create a multi-modal mode of transport for the shipment of cargo from the eastern ports of India to Myanmar. It connects the eastern Indian seaport of Kolkata with Sittwe seaport in Rakhine State, Myanmar by sea. It will reduce the distance from Kolkata to Sittwe by approximately 1,328 km.
Statements 2 and 3 are correct. The project will reduce the distance from Kolkata to Sittwe by approximately 1,328 km. It will reduce the need to transport goods through the narrow Siliguri corridor. This project will connect Sittwe Port in Myanmar to the India-Myanmar border. It will contribute to the economic development of the North-Eastern States of India, by opening up the sea route for the products. It provides an alternative to the Chicken’s Neck. This will lead to enhanced India’s control over its northeastern frontier and reduced logistical vulnerabilities. It will strengthen India’s Act East Policy.
Source: Forum IAS
