CS moots flights to SE Asia
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, April 23 2012:
State Chief Secretary DS Poonia has brought up the matter of introducing international flights from Imphal to Mandalay, Yangon, Bangkok and other South East Asian cities at the two-day regional consultation meeting of Working Group of National Advisory Council.
The consultation meeting of the North East States that kick started today at the auditorium of North Eastern Council (NEC) is being held in the presence of officials from Health, Sports and Banking of the Government of India.
DS Poonia who is representing Manipur Government in the meeting drew the attention of the officials to upgrade Tulihal Airport to International standadrd by expanding the airport complex, setting up of cold storage and introduction of cargo service.
Although, the State Government has handed over 650 acres of land for the expansion of the airport, DS Poonia said, expansion works being taken up by the Airports Authority of India are very slow.
The Chief Secretary also urged the Central Government to operate BSNL mobile towers with solar energy, increase internet connectivity and develop Manipur as a Special Economic Zone for IT .
Regarding health facilities, DS Poonia informed the officials that Autonomous District Councils in the hill districts have been entrusted to look after the functioning of Primany Health Sub Centres.
The Chief Secretary also drew attention of the Central officials that construction of NIT at Lamphelpat has been delayed although the State Government has acquired 300 acres of land for the purpose.
He also urged to upgrade sports infrastructures of the State.
The recommendations of the consultation meeting will be handed over to the Central Government to take up during 12th Plan period.