Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, Jun 04:
Upgradation of the 108 km long Maram-Peren road, which is the shortest route to Nagaland, to a double-lane is being planned to complete within the next three years.
BRTF has been entrusted with the task and the survey work for the same has already started.
Talking to reporters, local area MLA and Power Minister Francis Ngajokpa informed that the Union Ministry of Surface Transport has given the approval for upgrading the road and BRTF has been entrusted to execute the work.
So far surveying of the first 20 kms from Maram has been completed, he said.
"Earlier BRTF was hesitant to take up the task on account of the unsettling law and order condition prevailing in the State.
But on the assurance that I would take all the responsibility for the safety and security of the labourers, BRTF has been convinced to take up the work," Francis said.
It is for the first time that the Union Ministry of Surface and Transport has directly given the approval to upgrade the road to double lane, he informed, adding that necessary machines and bulldozers for repairing the road have started rolling on their way to the work site.
For executing the work properly, eviction of houses and shops constructed along the road sides will be started very soon and the people have also extended their co-operation.
However, no compensation would be given to the affected people, he clarified.
Even if the affected people may have objection to the eviction, they should sacrifice for the general welfare, the Minister maintained.
While pointing out that the biggest hindrance in construction of roads in remote hilly area is the threat and intimidation by some anti-social elements masquerading as underground activists, the Minister appealed to the people settling on both sides of road not to indulge in such activities and to extend their full co-operation to the BRTF authorities while they execute the work.