MEBO, Oct 11: Chief Minister Pema Khandu inaugurated a conference hall here in East Siang district on Thursday, in the presence of DCM Chowna Mein and several other dignitaries.
Reiterating the importance of surface, air, and rail connectivity in tapping the potentials of various sectors of the state, Pema said the state’s foothill belt could lead Arunachal’s economy “towards the path of prosperity.”
Informing that the central government has taken various initiatives to improve connectivity in the state, the CM said, “The state is set to witness lots of economic activities with good connectivity and completion of vital infrastructure projects.”
In order to supplement the Centre’s UDAAN scheme, the state government has launched the CM Air Connectivity Scheme to connect uncovered ALGs like Aalo, Mechuka, Tuting, Walong, etc, the CM said.
Referring to the need for railway connectivity between Pasighat and the foothill areas, he sought cooperation from the public, particularly the landowners, in carrying out the works.
Responding to a memorandum submitted by the GBs demanding immediate measures to address the issue of massive erosion by the Siang river, the chief minister assured that required funds would be sanctioned on priority.
He said he has directed the East Siang DC to conduct a survey with the executing agency within a day or two and submit the DPR at the earliest to ensure completion of flood protection works before the next monsoon season.
He said local MLA Lombo Tayeng has apprised the government of the plight of the farmers due to the erosion by the Siang river, and by the recent dry spell.
“Relief measures to mitigate the farming community will be announced by the state government shortly after submission of the detailed report,” he said.
On long-term measures to combat erosion, Pema said the state government has been taking it up with the Centre, and that an expert technical team would “soon visit for necessary action.”
Acknowledging the suggestion from retired IAF group captain Mohanta Pangging to divert the Siang river from Sigar area, the CM assured that the government would take all possible steps to address the issue of erosion and flood.
Lauding the local MLA and the PWD, the executing agency for the conference hall project, the CM said “such high quality work with optimum and judicious utilization of fund should be emulated.”
Mein in his address sought the people’s cooperation in developmental efforts.
“We can take forward the state through the spirit of teamwork,” he said.
Earlier, the CM held a meeting with officers of various departments.
Besides the local MLA, Environment & Forests Minister Nabam Rebia and state BJP president Tapir Gao were present on the occasion. (DIPRO)
