India is actively pursuing alternative connectivity routes to link its Northeast region with the rest of the country and Southeast Asia, primarily through Myanmar, amidst strained relations with Bangladesh. This strategic shift underscores the significance of projects like the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project (KMMTTP) and the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway.

Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project (KMMTTP)

The KMMTTP is a $500 million initiative designed to connect Kolkata to Mizoram via Myanmar, aiming to provide a crucial trade route that bypasses Bangladesh. Mizoram Governor General VK Singh announced on April 25, 2025, that construction on the Indian side of the KMMTTP is complete. The project includes:

• Sea Route: A 539 km stretch from Kolkata to Sittwe Port in Myanmar via the Bay of Bengal, which is already complete.
• River Route: A 158 km inland waterway along the Kaladan River from Sittwe to Paletwa in Myanmar, also completed.
• Road Route: A 109 km road from Paletwa to Zorinpui on the India-Myanmar border.

The final road leg in Myanmar is under construction, with a consortium of five Myanmar firms, including one affiliated with the government, working with the Indian Railway Construction Company (IRCON). The project aims to connect Vizag and Kolkata to the Northeast, fostering economic activity in the region. Once fully operational, the KMMTTP is expected to reduce the distance between Kolkata and Mizoram by approximately 1,000 km.

India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway

In addition to the KMMTTP, India is also focused on the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway. This 1,360 km highway begins in Moreh, India, passes through Tamu and Mandalay in Myanmar, and ends in Mae Sot, Thailand. The highway is a crucial component of India's Act East policy, designed to enhance trade, connectivity, and strategic partnerships in the region. While approximately 70% of the project is complete, the Myanmar segment has faced significant delays due to political instability and security concerns following the 2021 military coup. Originally slated for completion in 2015, the deadline has been extended to 2027, but ongoing conflicts continue to disrupt progress.

Geopolitical Context

These infrastructure projects gain additional significance due to recent shifts in regional dynamics. Relations between India and Bangladesh have been strained, particularly after Bangladesh's interim leader, Muhammad Yunus, reportedly referred to India's Northeast as "landlocked" during a visit to China, inviting Chinese access through Bangladesh. This prompted India to impose restrictions on some Bangladeshi exports via land routes and expedite alternative connectivity plans.

Furthermore, India has expressed concerns over China's growing influence in South Asia, including Bangladesh, through infrastructure projects under the Belt and Road Initiative. The KMMTTP, in particular, is seen as a strategic counterbalance to China's presence in Myanmar and the broader region.

Challenges and the Way Forward

Despite the progress, the KMMTTP and the Trilateral Highway face considerable challenges:

• Security Concerns: The ongoing civil war in Myanmar and conflicts in regions like Rakhine State pose significant security risks to the projects.
• Political Instability: The political situation in Myanmar has led to project delays and requires careful diplomatic engagement to ensure the safety of all stakeholders.
• Infrastructure Development: Inadequate road networks, especially in Myanmar, hinder smooth vehicular movement and require substantial upgrades.

To address these challenges, experts suggest a flexible strategy that includes exploring alternative routes, utilizing multimodal connectivity, and engaging in diplomatic outreach with all stakeholders. Ensuring security remains paramount, and exploring bypass options may help keep the projects on track.

The completion of the KMMTTP and the Trilateral Highway could redefine trade and transportation dynamics across South and Southeast Asia, opening up unparalleled economic opportunities for India's Northeast and fostering regional integration.