Gangtok: A prominent development economist and policy expert hailing from Darjeeling, Professor Mahendra P Lama, has recently underscored a critical impediment to progress in South Asia: the deficient trade and transport links among neighbouring nations.
His latest scholarly work, titled “Strengthening Trade and Transport Connectivity in Eastern South Asia,” which was published by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) in March of this year, meticulously outlines a strategic framework designed to foster more effective collaboration between countries such as Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, and Nepal.
Currently serving as the Chief Economic Advisor to the government of Sikkim, Professor Lama’s research-driven paper delivers a comprehensive and insightful examination of the obstacles hindering stronger economic relationships between the four key South Asian neighbours collectively known as BBIN. Despite their shared geographical boundaries, deep-rooted cultural affinities, and intertwined histories, these nations continue to grapple with significant challenges in the seamless movement of goods, people, and services across their respective borders, leading to elevated trade costs, protracted delays, and unrealized economic growth opportunities.
In his characteristically clear and concise writing style, Professor Lama points out the stark contrast between the advancements in global trade networks and digital logistics and the persistent fundamental issues plaguing Eastern South Asia. He highlights the prevalence of dilapidated road infrastructure, disconnected railway systems, outdated border checkpoints, and the continued reliance on manual paperwork in numerous instances. Professor Lama asserts that the paradoxical situation where trading with distant countries proves more economical and time-efficient than engaging with immediate neighbours is economically unsound, adversely impacting small enterprises, agricultural producers, manufacturers, and consumers throughout the region.
The paper delves into the reality that numerous trade routes depicted on maps within these countries are either non-operational, poorly maintained, or encumbered by complex regulatory frameworks. For example, the number of designated border crossings permitting the entry of vehicles from one nation into another remains limited. Consequently, goods frequently undergo the time-consuming and costly process of being unloaded, subjected to repeated inspections, and then reloaded onto different vehicles on the opposite side of the border, rendering regional trade uncompetitive and inefficient.
To address these systemic challenges, Professor Lama proposes a well-defined and detailed set of recommendations, with a strong emphasis on the development of “economic corridors.” He envisions these corridors as trade and transport arteries supported by robust infrastructure, including four-lane highways, railway lines, logistics hubs, warehousing facilities, and digital systems. He argues that these corridors should not only expedite the movement of goods but also generate employment opportunities and stimulate service sector growth for the communities residing along these routes, citing the potential benefits of fully developed corridors such as Kolkata-Dhaka-Agartala and Delhi-Kathmandu-Birgunj for millions of people.
A further crucial recommendation put forth by Professor Lama involves the modernisation of border management systems through the adoption of digital technologies. He advocates for the implementation of electronic data exchange systems to facilitate online customs and clearance procedures. Additionally, he stresses the need for intergovernmental collaboration to establish a unified platform for these digital systems, enabling real-time information sharing and processing among all participating countries, which would significantly reduce delays and foster greater trust among border agencies.
The paper also underscores the critical importance of harmonising rules and regulations across the region. The current landscape, characterised by disparate national regulations governing customs, safety standards, transport permits, and product specifications, creates confusion and inflates costs. Professor Lama recommends the mutual recognition of certifications and permits, allowing products cleared in one country to move freely into another without undergoing redundant procedures.
Beyond infrastructure and procedural reforms, Professor Lama emphasizes the need for stronger institutions and collaborative platforms. He suggests that existing forums such as BBIN, BIMSTEC, and SASEC should adopt a more action-oriented approach, transitioning from primarily ministerial and official meetings to include technical experts, private sector representatives, and local authorities to foster better ideas and accelerate policy implementation.
Significantly, Professor Lama’s paper transcends theoretical discussions by incorporating practical examples, empirical data, and successful case studies from other regions like ASEAN and the European Union. He illustrates how these regions have effectively integrated their economies through both physical infrastructure development and coordinated policy frameworks, urging the BBIN countries to draw lessons from these experiences while tailoring their strategies to their specific regional context.
A notable aspect of the paper is its human-centric perspective. Professor Lama consistently reminds readers that trade and transport are not merely about commodities and statistics but fundamentally about people. Improved road networks can enhance access to education and healthcare, while faster customs clearance can lead to lower prices for essential goods, and more efficient transport can open up new markets for farmers and artisans in remote areas.
In a personal message accompanying the paper’s release, Professor Lama stated, “Connectivity is not just an economic agenda; it is a social and humanitarian one. When people can move freely, goods can reach markets faster, and businesses can grow across borders, we all benefit. It is time for Eastern South Asia to move forward together.”
The paper has already garnered significant attention from various stakeholders, including policymakers, trade specialists, and academic institutions, with expectations that its recommendations will receive serious consideration in upcoming regional discussions and development initiatives. For nations grappling with unemployment, rising inflation, and sluggish economic growth, the paper presents a pragmatic and attainable pathway to stimulate economic activity through enhanced regional cooperation.
Professor Mahendra P Lama’s latest publication serves as more than just a policy document; it is a compelling call to action, urging collaboration and the unlocking of the vast untapped potential that lies across the borders of Eastern South Asia. With concerted efforts from the region’s leaders, administrators, and citizens, the vision of a well-connected, peaceful, and prosperous South Asia may well become a tangible reality.
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