Aye Myat Khaing, Narinjara News, 18 January 2025 

The Indian Ambassador to Myanmar, Abhay Thakur, toured the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Corridor (KMMTTC) Project in Sittwe, a city at the brink of conflict, on January 16 and 17. 

What was the reason for his visit to the project when the sounds of shelling and airstrikes could already be heard near Sittwe? 

As per an English-language announcement from the Indian Embassy, the visit aimed to assess the current activities at the Indian port in Sittwe

Although the embassy released this formal statement, political experts indicate that the visit might have aimed to evaluate the circumstances in the area and at Sittwe Port, where conflict seems probable. Analysts additionally think India may encourage both the military junta and the Arakan Army (AA) to guarantee the safety and security of the project. 

The Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Corridor (KMMTTC) Project between India and Myanmar is a multi-faceted transport effort aimed at granting sea access to India's landlocked northeastern areas, which encounter major transportation difficulties. The contract for the project was finalized in 2008, involving an investment of US$484 million. 

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During his visit to Sittwe, the ambassador was joined by Shri Sunil Mukundan, the Managing Director of India Ports Global Ltd (IPGL). 

The announcement stated, "The ambassador toured the Sittwe Port of the GOI-supported Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Corridor (KMMTTC) Project and assessed its current activities together with representatives from India Ports Global Limited (IPGL), the port operator." 

Since its opening in May 2023, the Sittwe Port has managed over 150 ships, moving a diverse array of cargo such as food, agricultural goods, medicines, fuel, vehicles, building supplies, machinery, and equipment. 

While on his visit, the ambassador engaged with U Htein Lin, the Chief Minister of Arakan State (encompassing Sittwe, Kyaukphyu, and Manaung), to talk about several bilateral development projects, capacity-building initiatives, and humanitarian aid within the Arakan State Development Programme, which is focused on meeting the needs and priorities of the Arakan State populace. 

Both parties concurred that the Sittwe Port, part of the India-Myanmar Friendship Project, would bolster coastal, regional, and international connectivity, as well as promote travel and tourism, particularly regarding the lasting civilizational bonds between the two nations. 

The ambassador further highlighted the significance of reestablishing peace and stability in the area. He mentioned that this would facilitate improved people-to-people connectivity between India and Myanmar, while also realizing the complete potential of the KMMTTC project. 

During his visit, the ambassador explored the Sri Sri Moha Dev Bari Temple in Sittwe and interacted with individuals from the Indian-origin community. 

He additionally toured the grounds of the Consulate General of India located in Sittwe. 

A businessman in Sittwe, who chose to stay unnamed, stated, “To what extent can the junta negotiate with India when all regions, aside from Sittwe where the Indian project is situated, are under AA control? Conflicts are occurring in Sittwe at present. I believe India ought to negotiate exclusively with those who govern the areas. Given that Sittwe remains under the junta’s authority, it appears they are participating in the talks favorably..“

In Arakan State, the AA has taken control of 14 townships, not including Sittwe, Kyaukphyu, and Manaung. Ongoing confrontations are happening regularly between the two factions in Sittwe Township.