Guwahati, July 8 -- Union Minister for Ports, Shipping & Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal on Monday unveiled a major Rs 5,000-crore initiative to boost waterways infrastructure in Northeast India, placing the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project (KMTTP) at the heart of this development.

He described the project as a "lifeline for the region" and a crucial element of India's Act East Policy.

While addressing a media briefing, Sonowal confirmed that the Kaladan Project, part of the India-Myanmar Friendship Treaty, would become fully operational by 2027.

The route will link Kolkata to Sittwe Port in Myanmar, continue through inland waterways to Paletwa, and connect via road to Zorinpui in Mizoram.

By offering a more efficient trade ...