Letters: Look south-east

The report "India eyeing economic corridor with Mekong" (November 18) is encouraging since it comes after the prime minister's emphasis on "connectivity" between the two countries. India shares 1,600 km of its border with Myanmar. With Bangladesh's involvement, this plan could vastly improve the economies of the nations in the region. But the fact that the Mekong is an over-dammed river that resulted in halving the unique reverse flow of the Cambodian river Tonle Sap should also be kept in mind. China has already strengthened its road and rail network with south east nations. We are late starters and have to move faster. The first step requires an enhanced level of political vision and leadership from the ministers concerned, a team of civil servants, and participation from the private sector. Bangkok is planning a link with the Dawei port in Myanmar. India also needs to show interest in the development of the Sittwe port. The recently established Cabinet committee on infrastructure and the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region should be charged with overseeing this plan in all the sectors.

S Subramanyan Navi Mumbai

Letters can be mailed, faxed or e-mailed to:
The Editor, Business Standard
Nehru House, 4 Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg
New Delhi 110 002
Fax: (011) 23720201
E-mail: letters@bsmail.in
All letters must have a postal address and telephone number