India is optimistic about completing the long-awaited India-Myanmar-Thailand (IMT) Trilateral Highway in the next two to three years, despite the challenges in Myanmar, says the Indian Ministry of Development of the North Eastern Region (DoNER).
During a recent familiarisation visit to India by a delegation of Southeast Asian journalists, the DoNER showcased its development initiatives in northeastern India and underlined India’s commitment to enhancing regional connectivity.
DoNER Secretary Chanchal Kumar addressed questions regarding the IMT Highway, which has faced delays due to political unrest in Myanmar.
“We expect the trilateral highway to be completed within two to three years,” he said.
The IMT Highway, also known as the Friendship Highway, is a 1,360-kilometre, four-lane road connecting Moreh in India’s Manipur state to Mae Sot in Thailand’s Tak province via Myanmar.
The project is a key component of India’s “Act East” policy and aims to strengthen trade and connectivity under the Asean-India Free Trade Agreement, which came into effect on Jan 1, 2010.
Progress on the highway has been incremental. A 160km stretch of the India-Myanmar Friendship Road linking Moreh to Myanmar’s Tamu-Kalemyo-Kalewa region was inaugurated in February 2001. Currently, construction is underway on the 120.74-kilometre Kalewa-Yagyi section, as well as 69 bridges along the 149.70-kilometre Tamu-Kyigone-Kalewa portion.
India has also proposed extending connectivity further through an India-Vietnam highway under the East-West Economic Corridor, aiming to link the broader Southeast Asian region.
“We want to reach the southern part of Southeast Asia, including Malaysia and Singapore. But first, we need to complete the northern segment,” Mr Kumar said.
“Our desire for comprehensive connectivity is very much there.”
Regarding the timeline, Mr Kumar said discussions are ongoing with the Myanmar government through its ambassador to India.
“If the situation in Myanmar improves, the highway could be completed even earlier,” he added. However, he acknowledged political instability could still pose delays.
“This is an international project involving foreign governments, so it’s essential to take their concerns into account,” he said.
“While we remain optimistic, we understand that unforeseen circumstances may affect the timeline.”