LDA chairman proposes projects to union minister
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, December 20 2024: Loktak Development Authority (LDA) chairman M Asnikumar participated in the EV Expo at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, alongside union minister of state for road transport and highways & corporate affairs Harsh Malhotra.

Taking advantage of the event, Asnikumar highlighted key infrastructure proposals for the state to the union minister of state.

Asnikumar used the occasion to discuss a critical road infrastructure project for Thanga assembly constituency in Bishnupur district, with the union minister of state.

The project, aimed at enhancing connectivity and fostering regional development, holds immense socio-economic and cultural significance for the region.

Asnikumar highlighted that a preliminary feasibility study for the project had recently been conducted by officials and engineers from the state PWD.

He urged the union MoS to include the proposed project as a component of National Highway 2 (NH2) .

The project includes the improvement and widening of existing roads and the development of new connectivity options to integrate Thanga and its adjoining areas with the state and national infrastructure network.

It envisions direct connectivity to major districts such as Bishnupur, Imphal West, Kakching, and Thoubal, linking Thanga to national highways including Tiddim Road (NH2), Mayai Lambi (NH 137/A), and National Highway 102 .

A key component of the project involves constructing a 1km-long bridge over Loktak Lake to connect Thanga Mangha Ching in Bishnupur district with Chingthi in Imphal West district.

This bridge, which will require environmental clearance, is expected to significantly enhance connectivity, reduce travel time, foster regional trade and commerce, and promote tourism in the region.

Asnikumar emphasised that the project would strengthen the region's integration into the broader economic framework of the state and the nation, paving the way for sustainable growth and development in Manipur.

During his address at the EV Expo, which brought together policymakers, industry leaders, and innovators to discuss India's journey towards sustainable mobility, Asnikumar praised the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi stating that his commitment to clean energy and green mobility has placed India at the forefront of the global push for sustainability.

Highlighting the EV revolution as a transformative initiative, he noted its critical role in tackling environmental challenges, bolstering energy security, and driving economic growth.

He lauded government initiatives such as the FAME scheme and the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) programme for battery manufacturing, which provide a robust foundation for EV adoption and domestic manufacturing.

He empha sised India's potential to lead the global EV ecosystem, by virtue of the strong policy ffamework and collaborative efforts of the industry and innovators.

However, he also acknowledged the challenges of infrastructure development and consumer awareness.

Calling for greater collaboration between public and private stakeholders, he expressed optimism that under Prime Minister Modi's dynamic vision, India would achieve a cleaner, greener, and more prosperous future.

Comment