IMPHAL, Sept 27 � The Indo-Myanmar cross border bus service from Imphal-Mandalay is likely yo be made operational once the Myanmar authority approves the proposal in paper.
Manipur Transport minister Dr Khumukcham Ratankumar disclosed this while speaking at a felicitation function of an eight-member Myanmarese Medical team at Shija hospitals and Research Institute in Imphal on Wednesday.
Minister Dr Ratankumar said that a high-level meeting of officials of both India and Myanmare was held in NayPyi Taw (Myanmar) in June. �Once the Myanmar authority approves it will be signed,� he added.
The bus service which was in limbo for about two years, would cover a distance of 579 kilometres between Imphal (Manipur) to Mandalay (Myanmar) in about 14 hours time. Though the fare is yet to be finalized, sources said it would be below Rs 2000.Besides there are also plans to provide visa on arrival facilities on both sides, the state has reached an understanding with Ministry of External affairs to hold passport mela regularly.
Minister Ratankumar who also holds the works portfolio also added that the state government has also urging the centre to repair the poor road and bridges along the said route to facilitate the service. Once the service is on it will not only strengthen the bilateral ties between the two countries but will boost economic activity in the region.
