Aizawl, Dec 21: The Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project (KMTTP), aimed at connecting Mizoram to the Bay of Bengal, is progressing on schedule and is expected to be completed by July 2025. Union Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, confirmed that Rs 356.87 crore has been allocated for the project as of November 2023. Construction is underway on the 109 km road section, with 70 km already completed. Upon completion, the project is expected to enhance regional connectivity and offer an alternative trade route for Northeast India through Myanmar’s Sittwe port.
In Parliament, Union Minister of State for Petroleum, Suresh Gopi, provided an update on oil exploration activities in Mizoram, with ONGC and Vedanta currently operating in three designated blocks. Union Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Jitin Prasada, also clarified that no border haats have been established along the Indo-Myanmar or Indo-Bangladesh borders.
Mizoram Rajya Sabha Member K Vanlalvena raised multiple issues during a Parliamentary Committee on Railways meeting. He criticized delays in compensating six families affected by the Bairabi-Sairang railway project, despite a directive from the Gauhati High Court. Vanlalvena also urged the timely completion of the Sihhmui railway station platform and a bridge between Sairang and Kurung, citing contractor accountability concerns.
Additionally, Vanlalvena expressed frustration over the Union Home Minister’s lack of response to questions regarding the ongoing crisis in Manipur. He condemned the government’s failure to address critical issues such as casualties, compensation for victims, central force deployments, and the recovery of looted arms, accusing the government of a lack of transparency.