1. Overview:

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma proposed an economic corridor connecting Garo Hills (Meghalaya) to Kolkata (West Bengal) via Bangladesh.

  1. Key Features:

Connects Hili (West Bengal) to Mahendraganj (Garo Hills).

Reduces travel distance between towns in Garo and Khasi Hills and Kolkata from 500 km to 100 km.

Expected to cut travel time by 20–60%.

  1. Significance:

Economic Development: Boosts trade, commerce, and tourism in Meghalaya and other Northeastern States.

Regional Connectivity: Enhances cross-border infrastructure, strengthening India-Bangladesh relations.

Strategic Importance: Improves access to ports in West Bengal for the landlocked Northeast, facilitating exports and imports.

Sustainable Growth: Reduces carbon footprint by shortening transport routes.

  1. Geopolitical Angle:

Aligns with Act East Policy, promoting cross-border trade and regional cooperation.

Strengthens ties with Bangladesh by fostering economic interdependence.

Published by Pragyanxetu

One Earth. One Future