Enraged locals to block Tongjei Maril from Dec 8
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, November 28 2012:
In a protest against the alleged 'deliberate deaf and dumb' nature of the State Government towards development of Tongjei Maril road, also known as Old Chachar Road (NH- 150 A) enraged villagers residing alongside the 100 km long road stretch have served an ultimatum giving December 8 as the deadline for development of the historic road.
The villagers have also decided to block the road from December 9 if the State Government failed to do the needful in this regard.
Speaking to media persons at the office of Cachar Road Educational & Sporting Association (CRESA) at Bishnupur today, Sanasam Ibohal, Advisor of CRESA, observed that in spite of the historical importance of the road, the State and the Central Government have been neglecting it for so long.
After the black topping which was carried out way back in 1986, there has been no further maintenance or improvement of the road condition.
Lamenting that despite repeated demands, the condition of the road has gone from bad to worse; Ibohal noted that due to pathetic condition of the road, villagers have been confronting various problems.
For the last time, villagers and local clubs would be submitting a memorandum to state government and if the authorities concerned failed to improve the condition of the road or give an assurance for improving the road within a stipulated deadline, the road would be blocked, Ibohal announced.
Various clubs and organizations have come together and prepared to launch intense democratic agitations to press the demand and the State Government should be held responsible for any eventuality, Ibohal categorically added.
Village Chief of Chini-Ingkhol, Gyaneshwor, who was also present on the occasion, pointed out that the only desire of the villagers is to see improvement in the condition of the road.
So, the government should not neglect the demand of the villagers who can't tolerate the indifferent attitude of the Government any longer.
Representatives from Ngariyan, Dolang, Tairenpokpi and Chini-Ingkhol and others, who were also present during the press conference accused Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam and Commerce and Industry Minister Govindas Konthoujam for keeping mum and not showing any concern towards the plights of the villagers.
They also warned of boycotting the two Ministers if they failed to comply with their long standing demand.