CM inaugurates two bridges
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, November 19 2014: Chief Minister Okram Ibobi today inaugurated the newly constructed 52 metres long Thumbuthong bridge and an RCC bridge along Ibudhou Marjing Pony Sanctuary approach road under Heingang AC in Imphal East district.

The bridge, which connects Imphal East and Imphal West, was constructed by Public Works Department at a cost of Rs 713.20 lakh with funds from Non-lapsable Central Pool of Resources (NLCPR) .

The inauguration function was attended by Chief Minister O Ibobi as the chief guest, Works Minister Kh Ratankumar as the president, Yaiskul MLA E Chand and Additional Chief Secretary O Nabakishore as the guests of honour.

In his speech, the Chief Minister said that considering the ever increasing traffic congestion, the State Government has constructed a number of bridges to connect the two districts of Imphal.

Chief Minister Okram Ibobi inaugurated the newly constructed 52 metres long Thumbuthong bridge Pix- DIPR

He added that the Government is also planning to construct a bridge at Keirao.

Regarding Sanjenthong bridge, the Chief Minister said that earlier, the Government had plans to construct a diversion bridge before the closure of the bridge, however, the plan had to be cancelled as there were inconveniences to erect a diversion bridge as there was inviolable portion of historic Kangla on the northern side and important Government offices on the southern side.

Although, the Government had set the target to complete the bridge before Manipur Sangai Festival, the target could not be achieved due to the non-arrival of some important construction materials on time, he said and added that these materials had to be brought to India from UK or France in cargo planes.

Maintaining that revamping of roads being carried out at different parts of Imphal is not just for the Manipur Sangai Festival, O Ibobi urged the people who are residing on both the sides of these roads to co-operate with the Government and ensure proper maintenance.

He also expressed hope that opening of Thumbuthong would ease traffic congestion to a great extent.

Speaking at the occasion, Kh Ratankumar said that retaining walls on both the sides of the newly inaugurated bridge could not be completed on time as the area falls under sinking zone.

He said that the retaining walls would be constructed after taking consideration of expert opinions.

Regarding Greater Imphal Ring road, the Works Minister clarified that the Government has just started the survey works only and nothing has been finalised regarding land acquisition so far.

Saying that the ring road would be constructed with funds from Asian Development Bank, Ratankumar said that 90 per cent of the total amount would be borne by the Centre and the remaining 10 per cent by the State.

Saying that tender process for the said project has already started, the Minister said that work orders are likely to be issued by March next year.

O Nabakishore said that construction of Thumbuthong bridge was started on November 9, 2012 and completed on November 8, 2014 .

The total length of the bridge is 52 metres and the width is 12 metres including foothpaths on both sides with each measuring 2.25 metre, he added.

The Chief Minister also inaugurated an RCC bridge along Ibudhou Marjing Pony Sanctuary approach road under Heingang AC in Imphal East district.

The bridge also connects Achanbigei Makha Leikai and Heingang Awang Leikai.

The bridge was constructed at the cost of Rs 604 lakh under SPA.

It is 60 metre in length.

Speaking at the inauguration function this morning organised by the State PWD, the Chief Minister said that construction of roads and bridges is also among the development works undertaken by the Govt.Such bridges would benefit all sections of the people including students and farmers.

Works & Transport minister Dr Ratankumar and Heingang AC MLA N Biren also attended the inauguration programme.