Tamu to Kalewa : Roads but no bridges
Source: The Sangai Express
Naypyitaw, March 15 2012:
Even though India has developed the 300 Kms long highway from Tamu to Kalewa under a bilateral understanding with the Government of Myanmar, a number of bridges that dot the highway have been left unattended.
This was observed by our reporter who is taking part in the Indo-Myanmar Friendship Car Rally organised by the North East Federation of International Trade.
On the other hand, the Government of China has constructed four-lane highway and eight-lane expressway from its border town of Mosei through Myanmar.
Moreover, gas pipe lines have been laid all the way to China.
Though the Government of India has started constructing highways through Myanmar under its Look East Policy, these highways are unable to serve their intended purposes as many bridges that connect the highways have not been properly developed.
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It is unlikely that the much talked about Imphal-Mandalay can be introduced any time soon as the highway from Kalewa to Monywa is in very bad shape.
Nonetheless, people of Myanmar seemed rather enthusiastic to establish closer connectivity with India through Manipur.
Large number of people were seen lining up the roads and greeting participants of the car rally .
The car rally team led by Tourism Commissioner KK Chhetry reached Naypyitaw, capital of Myanmar today, and he held a meeting with the Commerce and Industries Minister of Myanmar.
The team includes representatives of industries, Works and Transport departments, business delegates, oil and gas and software companies.
One tourist guide operating at Mandalay said that they like Indian bikes but bikes manufactured in China are three times cheaper.
After construction of the expressway from the Chinese town of Mosei till Rangoon coupled with establishment of democratic Government, many countries have opened doors of friendship with Myanmar.
Already, many international conferences are being organised in Myanmar which was one of the most reclusive country a few years back.
Manipuri cultural programmes were presented at a function held as a part of the car rally at Monywa yesterday.