CM hints at Poll Code for inaction on water crisis, commuters' woes
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, May 02 2014 : While acknowledging that current issues concerning acute shortage of potable water and commuters enduring inconveniences due to reconstruction of Sanjenthong (bridge) deserve immediate attention and prompt action, Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh contended that with the election code of conduct still in force the Government is constrained to act with extreme caution.

He also declared that the Congress party will honour and comply with any decision the Election Commission of India takes with regard to demand for repoll by some Opposition political parties.

Talking to newspersons on the sidelines of infrastructure development inspection programme yesterday, the CM claimed that necessary measures to supply potable water have been taken up to mitigate suffering of the people to some extent.

Assuring that the Government initiative would be sustained till the problem of drinking water shortage eases, he said minute study/discussion is on to draw water from the Leisang Hiden (Canal) in Canchipur to ensure that the people do not suffer any further.

The CM also stressed on economic usage of water by the general public.

Noting that shutdown of Sanjenthong has resulted in the people enduring severe inconveniences in crisscrossing the twin capital districts, Ibobi maintained that measures to ease the commuters' problem would be put in place by the Government at the earliest possible.

Inspite of being fully aware about the problems besieging the general public the Government cannot act in haste as it would amount to violation of the election code of conduct, he said adding that with the consent of the ECI certain measures to redress outstanding issues are being initiated on priority basis.

With apparent reference to the CPI and BJP State units petitioning the ECI for ordering repoll in polling stations where votes were cast above 90 percent, the CM said Congress party will welcome and accept any decision taken by the election authorities.

In case the ECI too is suspicious that 90 percent or above polling is abnormal and repoll should be conducted the same decision will have to be complied with, said Ibobi while opining that the ECI will certainly have to take into account whether 90 percent and above polling contravenes standard election procedures.

Accompanied by his ministerial colleagues and PWD officials the CM assessed infrastructure development works for Hotel Imphal at North AOC area and Imphal International Airport, Tulihal.

Besides advising officials concerned to ensure that the Hotel Imphal construction works continue without any delay he also interacted with people affected by the Airport expansion project.

The CM patiently hearing complaints by residents of Kodompokpi Mayai Leikai, Chabungbam Mayai Leikai and Ningombam areas, affected by the airport's expansion, during his tour assured them that pending compensation amount would be released at the earliest possible.

Prevailing upon the affected landowner that expansion of the Airport is inevitable consequent to the flight landing facility upgraded to an international airport, he also sought cooperation of the locals in the Government's endeavour to transform Imphal International Airport an attractive venue for travellers from around the globe.

Works and Transport Minister Dr Kh Ratankumar, former Minister K Ranjit, MLA RK Anand, former MLA L Jayantakumar, PWD Chief Engineer M Lokendro Singh and Department officials also accompanied the CM during his inspection tour.

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