Sri Lanka’s new President, Anura Kumara Dissanayake, has sparked a re-evaluation of major infrastructure projects with India, including the ambitious Ram Setu land bridge proposal. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was among the first global leaders to congratulate Dissanayake on his electoral win, emphasizing a shared goal of deepening bilateral ties.
Connectivity remains central to the India-Sri Lanka relationship, reinforced by a 2023 vision document during former Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s visit to India. This outlined ambitious plans for collaboration in trade, energy, and people-to-people links, with a focus on maritime and land connectivity.
One key project under consideration is a $5 billion land bridge, potentially connecting Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka via the Palk Strait. While the project promises significant economic benefits, including reduced transport costs, increased tourism, and expanded market access, concerns over environmental impacts, national security, and local community interests have arisen.
Sri Lanka is reportedly reviewing this and other connectivity projects, including Adani Group ventures in northern Sri Lanka. Nationalist factions in Sri Lanka worry that such initiatives may tilt the nation’s economic and geopolitical sovereignty toward India. Additionally, the ecological impact on the fragile marine biodiversity of the Gulf of Mannar and disruptions to fishing communities have raised significant local opposition.
The review comes against the backdrop of limited success in smaller projects, such as a stalled ferry service between Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka. The service, intended to revitalize trade and tourism, suffered delays and operational challenges despite initial enthusiasm.
As President Dissanayake adopts a pragmatic approach to balancing India’s strategic interests and Sri Lanka’s development needs, experts call for renewed political dialogue. By addressing local and environmental concerns, both countries aim to bridge gaps in their ambitious vision for regional connectivity and foster a sustainable partnership amidst emerging challenges.