Modi’s Proposal: India and Sri Lanka have close geographical, economic, cultural and historical ties. The two countries have signed several agreements, cooperation in trade, infrastructure development, education, health, defense, cultural exchange and other areas. In this context, India is making efforts to further strengthen these. As part of this, India proposed a road and rail project to further increase connectivity less than two decades ago.
A project to connect India to Sri Lanka directly through a bridge or tunnel has been under discussion for the past few years. It is still at the proposal stage, but if it is completed, it will bring about major changes in the infrastructure between the two countries. However, it is facing a setback at first. A media report has revealed that Sri Lanka has recently rejected the land connectivity project proposed by India. India intends to connect the two countries through the construction of a road and railway bridge. However, Sri Lanka has made it clear that they are not ready for this project.
According to the report, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who recently visited Colombo, raised the proposal during his meeting with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. Dissanayake first raised the proposal during his visit to India in December last year. However, he apparently rejected it, deeming it impossible. The report said that the issue did not come up for discussion in recent bilateral meetings.
Meanwhile, after the end of his Sri Lankan visit, Modi flew from Colombo in an Indian Air Force helicopter and inspected the ‘Ram Setu’. This ancient structure, according to mythology, is believed to have been used by the Vanara army to invade Lanka. It holds geographical, historical and epic significance between India and Sri Lanka.
The construction of a bridge or tunnel from Rameswaram (Tamil Nadu) in India to Mannar Island in Sri Lanka is estimated to be approximately 23 to 30 kilometers long.
Road and rail connections between India and Sri Lanka will open new avenues for trade and tourism. Also, cultural and economic ties between the two countries will be further strengthened. Traveling directly through the Palk Strait will reduce time and cost.
2. Ram Setu, Hindu Religious Beliefs: This area is considered very sacred religiously.
3. Political and Security Matters: Mutual trust and security measures are necessary between the two countries.
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