Kolkata, June 23: Imagine embarking on a road trip from India to Thailand, traversing breathtaking landscapes, discovering hidden gems, and experiencing diverse cultures along the way. What was once a distant dream is now on the brink of becoming a reality.
The Kolkata-Myanmar-Thailand Highway, a visionary project proposed by former Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 2002, is nearing completion and is set to revolutionize travel between the two countries. This 2800-kilometer-long highway promises a remarkable adventure that combines the joy of road travel with the convenience of reaching your destination with ease.
A New Chapter in Connectivity:
The current mode of travel from India to Thailand involves a lengthy flight, taking around four hours. However, the Kolkata-Myanmar-Thailand Highway offers a thrilling alternative, allowing travelers to embark on an unforgettable road journey. By taking this route, travelers can immerse themselves in the diverse landscapes, cultures, and traditions that dot the region, making the journey itself an integral part of the overall experience.
A Historic Vision:
The conception of this ambitious project dates back to 2002 when Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the esteemed former Prime Minister of India, proposed the idea. His vision was to strengthen bilateral ties and enhance regional connectivity through a well-constructed highway that would facilitate seamless travel between Kolkata, the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal, Myanmar, and Thailand. The implementation of this project is a testament to Vajpayee’s foresight and commitment to bolstering relationships with neighboring countries.
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Construction and Progress:
The Kolkata-Myanmar-Thailand Highway, also known as the East-West Economic Corridor, has been a mammoth undertaking, spanning several years of planning and construction. The highway stretches across 2800 kilometers, connecting Kolkata in India to Thailand via Myanmar. As of now, a significant portion of the project has been completed, with the only remaining work pending in Myanmar. It is estimated that the construction will be fully concluded by 2027, opening up new avenues for trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.
Enhancing Regional Integration:
The completion of the Kolkata-Myanmar-Thailand Highway holds tremendous potential for fostering economic growth, trade, and tourism in the region. It will serve as a vital link, enabling smoother movement of goods and services between India, Myanmar, and Thailand. Additionally, the highway will open up new markets, promote cross-border investments, and create employment opportunities, thereby uplifting the local communities along its route.
The Joy of Road Travel:
Embarking on a road trip from Kolkata to Thailand offers a plethora of advantages. Travelers can savor the freedom of exploring diverse landscapes at their own pace, stopping at picturesque towns, and indulging in authentic local cuisine. From the verdant tea gardens of West Bengal to the stunning landscapes of Myanmar and the tropical beauty of Thailand, this route promises a sensory feast for all those who dare to embark on this memorable journey.
As the Kolkata-Myanmar-Thailand Highway nears completion, it beckons adventurers and explorers to embrace a new way of traversing between India and Thailand. This visionary project, rooted in the foresight of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, will not only shorten the distance between the two nations but also strengthen the bonds of friendship, trade, and cultural exchange. So, if you are ready for a road trip of a lifetime, gear up and get ready to hit the road, as the highway to Thailand awaits with open arms.
