ITANAGAR, Nov 13: Additional Director General of the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MORTH) I K Pandey has expressed concern over the delay in construction of Trans-Arunachal Highway (TAH) due to land compensation and various other issues in Arunachal Pradesh. He was speaking in Itanagar on Monday.
While reviewing the implementation of road projects being undertaken by the various agencies in the state, Pandey observed that most of the projects are not being done within the stipulated time and as per the schedule. He called upon all stakeholders to put all efforts and expedite project implementation as per guidelines.
Expressing surprise over the delay in execution of Potin-Pangin road even after the land acquisition compensation has already been sanctioned, Pandey said “land acquisition for road project is a state government subject and it should have been done earlier.” However, he hoped that issues involving land compensation would be solved soon. So far land acquisition has been done only for 150 KM stretch of Potin-Pangin road, he lamented.
He appealed to all stakeholders to devote their time and energy to improve the road connectivity in the state. He further suggested for use of modern technology for good and durable roads.
Regarding liabilities of flood restoration works carried out during last monsoon, Pandey requested the concern agencies to submit proposals with proper documentation for consideration of Union Ministry.
Speaking on the occasion, PWD Commissioner, Belatee Pertin highlighted the causes of delay in land acquisition process for roads. Most of the land in state belongs to tribal community and they have own traditional system of land holding. Government has to approach public to seek their support in major projects, he said.
Pertin also requested for separate MORTH Regional Office for Arunachal Pradesh as the present office is holding dual charge of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh which affect good coordination and proper functioning. State government have already written to central Govt but no action has been taken so far.
Pointing out the heavy landslide which causes damage to road and bridges during monsoon, he appealed the Centre to sanction sufficient fund for road restoration works in the state. He further drew the attention of the ADG for early payment to the contractors.
Regional Officer, (MORTH) R K Singh, Chief Engineer in-charge (Highway) SE Duggum Ete, Eastern Zone (Highway) SE, S. Sumnyan elaborated on all projects so far taken under the Highway through power point presentation.
Representative from SUSHEE Infra & Mining Ltd, TK Engineering Consortium Pvt Ltd, Dibang Bridge construction project, Potin-Panging road project, engineers and consultants of various road projects in the state were present during the day long review meeting.
