Bridge over Irang river inaugurated
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, February 18 2015:
Langkhok Bhalok bridge constructed anew over Irang river in Tamenglong district has been inaugurated today by Works Minister Dr Kh Ratankumar.
Speaking at the inaugural function, Dr Ratankumar claimed that the State Government has been paying extra attention to Tamenglong in order to bring rapid development in the district.
Stating that transport infrastructure is fundamental to development of a State, Ratankumar asserted that development of transport infrastructure is crucial for development of Manipur.
Tamenglong district can definitely take remarkable strides towards development in the next five years if all the necessary modern infrastructure for transport and communication can be put in place.
The road which is connected by the bridge inaugurated today would considerably shorten the distance between Imphal-Jiribam highway and Tamenglong district headquarters.
This crucial road would be constructed by the State PWD regardless of whether the State Government has the required fund or not so that people's movement is not affected even during rainy season, Dr Ratankumar stated.
Manipur stands to benefit a lot once the State becomes the gateway of India to South East Asia with all the modern transport and communication infrastructure.
He also appealed to all the people not to impede development works in any manner.
Many other bridges currently under construction are targeted for completion by March this year.
Although Manipur has achieved remarkable progress in the fields of culture, sports and information technology the State still remains quite backward in terms of transport infrastructure.
Hill Areas Committee Vice-Chairman Z Kikhonbou Newmai, Tamenglong A/C MLA Janghemlung Panmei and former MLA Khangthuanang Panmei were also seated on the dais at the inaugural function.
Janghemlung Panmei said that a new market shed would be constructed soon for the convenience of public in view of the fact that the bridge would provide the shortest route between Imphal-Jiribam highway and Tamenglong district headquarters.
He also sought public cooperation in all development activities.
He then appealed to the State Government to follow policies and programmes which would bring uniform development in the hill areas and the valley.
The bridge built over Irang river is 70 metres long, 7.5 metres wide and it was constructed at the cost of Rs 876 lakh.
Traditional dance and music programmes added fun and frolic to the inaugural function.