K Molnom village RCC bridge work resumes
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, June 28 2024:
Construction of the RCC bridge over the Manipur River near K Molnom village in Chandel district has reportedly resumed, one month after the government halted the project following a spot inspection on May 26 .
Photographs shared on social media platforms show construction workers back at the site, with the bridge piers nearing completion.
Earlier on May 25, a team of security personnel and state government officials attempted to inspect the ongoing bridge construction but were unable to reach the site due to roadblocks set up by Kuki women.
The following day, the team led by Chakpikarong SDO and accompanied by Chandel additional SP and officers from Chakpikarong, Sugnu, and Waikhong police stations, along with BSE and Assam Rifles, returned with a JCB to dismantle the structure.
Despite the security team's efforts, Kuki women once again blocked their passage by piling tree trucks on the road.
After several hours of negotiation and warnings, the team was finally allowed to proceed around 4:30 PM.
Upon reaching the site, officials found six bases of the bridge, already completed and instructed locals to cease construction until formal government approval was obtained.
The police team then withdrew from the area.
Previously, on March 21, 2024, the Chandel DC had informed relevant officials to halt preparations for the bridge, citing concerns about the project's impact on the law and order situation.
The DC also directed the Assam Rifles to assist in stopping the construction.'However, work on the bridge continued intermittently despite these directives and the presence of security forces.
The resumption of construction has sparked renewed controversy and raised questions about the enforcement of government orders or whether the government had approved the construction work.