Sri Lanka and India are re-examining a proposed $5 billion land and rail bridge project that would connect the two nations across the Palk Strait. The idea of a land bridge has historical roots, dating back to British colonial plans in the early 20th century, but was never fully realized due to interruptions like World War I. The concept resurfaced in the early 2000s under Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, and has been revisited multiple times since, with varying degrees of interest and opposition.
Currently, the political climate appears more favorable, especially after India’s substantial economic assistance to Sri Lanka during its recent financial crisis. The project envisions a 23 km bridge linking Dhanushkodi in India to Talaimannar in Sri Lanka, incorporating both road and rail connections. This could significantly reduce transport costs and time for trade, boost tourism, and foster economic development, particularly in Sri Lanka’s underdeveloped Northern and North Central Provinces.
However, some concerns about security, sovereignty, and potential Indian economic dominance have historically fueled opposition from Sri Lankan nationalists. Despite these concerns, the current discussions have not faced the same level of nationalist resistance, likely due to India’s pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s economic recovery