IMPHAL, November 7: The Tamenglong-Tousem road which is around 80 kms long and is a lifeline to the Tousem people “lies abandoned like an orphan road”, stated Tamei MLA Z Kikhonbou Newmai.
The MLA was on an inspection tour of the villages of Namtiram II, Azuram, Mandu III, Tousem HQ, Tousem Lehullen and Model Village (Tousem).
To help facilitate better connectivity, the roads and bridges in Tousem will be developed soon, Z Newmai said, adding that Tamenglong – Tousem road, also known as the Haflong road, is an important one but is in a deplorable condition.
For the development of the road, there is a need of a financial package of around Rs 100 crores but the State government due to financial constraints could not provide such a huge amount that even the North East Council (NEC) could not bear, he said. However, the government is trying its level best to complete the road, he added.
He further stated that the NEC, PWD and PMGSY didn’t take up the project for the development of the road.
The Haflong road has been kept in the first priority list for development by the NEC in its 12 years plan after being urged by the State government to complete it at the earliest, he added.
He further added that the Makru Bridge which was built in 2013-2014 with the plan fund of around Rs 50 lakh has been washed away by the flood. However, the CM and Works minister have assured to renovate the bridge very soon in consideration for the welfare of the people, Z Newmai said.
He also inspected the BDO office, police barrack, staff office, bank building which were constructed by the MDS under the Special Plan Assistance of Inclusive Hills Growth Infrastructure Building.