Why is Suez canal important for India?

The Suez Canal is a 193.30 km (120.11 mi) man-made waterway in Egypt, connecting the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea. It is one of the world's most important shipping lanes and is particularly significant for India for the following reasons:

1. Shorter Route: The Suez Canal provides a much shorter route for maritime trade between India and Europe, compared to the alternative route around the Cape of Good Hope at the southern tip of Africa. This significantly reduces the distance and time required for ships to travel between India and Europe, leading to faster and more efficient transportation of goods.

2. Reduced Transportation Costs: Using the Suez Canal saves fuel and other operational costs for ships, making the transportation of goods between India and Europe more economical.

3. Increased Trade Volume: The Suez Canal has facilitated a substantial increase in trade volume between India and Europe. It allows for larger vessels and greater cargo capacity, enabling the efficient transportation of a wider range of goods.

4. Access to Diverse Markets: The Suez Canal provides India with direct access to diverse markets in Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. This connectivity has expanded India's export opportunities and strengthened its economic relations with these regions.

5. Enhanced Connectivity: The Suez Canal enables India to establish efficient maritime connections with other important trade hubs in the Mediterranean, such as the ports of Alexandria, Port Said, and Damietta.

6. Strategic Location: India's proximity to the Suez Canal has strategic advantages in terms of maritime trade and geopolitical influence in the region.

7. Diversification of Trade Routes: The Suez Canal reduces India's dependence on a single trade route, providing an alternative path for exports and imports, mitigating the risks associated with disruptions in other parts of the world.