India to Thailand by Road: Kolkata-Bangkok Highway Project

India is moving fast in developing road infrastructure. Not only inside the country, but India is now building road connections to other countries too. One of the biggest and most exciting road projects is the Kolkata-Bangkok Highway. Once completed, this highway will make it easy to travel from India to Thailand by road.

Let us understand this project, its history, route, progress, and why it matters so much for India and other Asian countries.

What is the Kolkata-Bangkok Highway?

The Kolkata-Bangkok Highway is a 2800 km long road project that will connect India, Myanmar, and Thailand. This road is also part of a bigger plan called the IMT Trilateral Highway (India-Myanmar-Thailand Highway). The highway is being developed to boost trade, tourism, and transport among these three countries.

It was a dream project of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The main goal is to create strong road links between South Asian and Southeast Asian countries.

Why is this Highway Important?

This road will improve trade and business between India, Myanmar, and Thailand. It will save transport time and cost. Goods will move faster across borders. Tourists and travelers will also benefit as it will be possible to go to Thailand by road in a smooth and safe way.

It is also a part of the "Act East Policy" of India, where India wants to increase its connection with Southeast Asia.

Countries Involved and BIMSTEC

This highway is very important for BIMSTEC countries. BIMSTEC is a group of 7 countries – India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Thailand. These countries want to work together for economic growth. The Kolkata-Bangkok Highway is a strong step in that direction.

The Route of the Kolkata-Bangkok Highway

This highway will start from Kolkata in India and go through many cities and towns before reaching Bangkok in Thailand.

Here is a simple breakdown:

In India:

• Kolkata
• Siliguri
• Guwahati
• Kohima
• Imphal
• Moreh (Manipur)

In Myanmar:

• Tamu
• Kalewa
• Monywa
• Mandalay
• Myawaddy

In Thailand:

• Mae Sot
• Sukhothai
• Bangkok

The highway will pass through important borders and connect small towns to major cities, making trade and travel smoother for everyone.

Current Status of Construction

• Most of the work in India and Thailand is complete.
• In Myanmar, progress has been slow because of financial issues and political problems.
• Some parts of the road in Myanmar are still under construction.

The most difficult part is the 121.8 km stretch between Kalewa and Yagyi in Myanmar. This area has seen conflicts in the past, which delayed the project. But work is going on, and India is helping Myanmar by funding the construction.

The full highway is expected to be ready by 2026 or early 2027.

India’s Role and Help to Myanmar

India has played a big role in building this highway. In fact, India has invested millions of dollars to build roads and bridges in Myanmar. India also maintained some parts of the road earlier.

• In 2001, the Indo-Myanmar Friendship Road was completed.
• In 2012, India promised $100 million to rebuild the road.
• Later, under Prime Minister Modi, India started work again and helped upgrade several key sections.
• In 2017, India approved funding of $150 million to improve the Kalewa-Yagyi section.

India has also taken help from Thailand to support Myanmar in construction. Thailand provided $51 million to help build another stretch.

Future Plans and Connectivity

After this highway is completed, there are plans to extend the road further to Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam. This will create a 3200 km long economic corridor. It will help India increase business with the ASEAN countries.

The goal is to connect South Asia to Southeast Asia through good roads. This will create more jobs, increase trade, and build strong partnerships.

Benefits of Kolkata-Bangkok Highway

• Faster Goods Movement: Trucks and cargo will reach their destination faster, reducing cost and time.
• Tourism Boost: People will be able to travel from India to Thailand by road.
• Better Trade Relations: More business between India, Myanmar, and Thailand.
• Employment Opportunities: New jobs during construction and later in transport, tourism, and trade.
• Stronger International Ties: India will improve its position in the region.

Challenges Faced

• Myanmar’s internal conflict and financial issues delayed work.
• Weather and terrain also make construction difficult in some areas.
• Political stability in all three countries is needed for long-term success.

Still, with strong leadership and international support, the project is moving forward.

Final Thoughts

The Kolkata-Bangkok Highway is more than just a road. It is a symbol of connection, growth, and regional friendship. Once open, it will change how people and goods move across Asia. It will help India, Myanmar, and Thailand grow together.

India’s dream of reaching Southeast Asia by road is becoming true. This highway is not just important for infrastructure, but also for the future of trade, travel, and trust between Asian countries.

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