Rail project works gain momentum
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, November 05 2009: The construction work on the National project of laying the railway track from Jiribam to Imphal via Tupul is currently being taken up by Northern Frontier Railways (NFR) on a war footing.

With completion of earth-work over 30 kms from Jiribam, it is now in a position to lay the railway track.

During a recent spot inspection, The Sangai Express noticed the ongoing hectic activities in connection with construction of the railway line.

Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh had laid the foundation stone of the project in November 2004 and the NFR has been entrusted with the task of laying the railway track which would connect Jiribam with Imphal via Tupul.

A large culvert under construction along the Jiribam-Imphal railway line

According to an official source, some days earlier, the Chief Minister reviewed progress of the railway project, which would not only put Manipur in the railway network of the country but benefit the people of the region, along with the officials of the Railways and the State Government.

For the first phase of the work which would cover a distance of 98 kms extending from Jiribam to Tupul, so far earthwork along 30 kms from Jiribam side have been completed and ready for laying the track.

Labourers were also seen engaging in the work day and night at various spots to ensure completion of the work in time.

One battalion of BSF which used to be deployed for security but subsequently withdrawn in connection with fighting naxalite too has been replaced with CRPF personnel.

Interacting with The Sangai Express, Deputy Commissioner of Tamenglong district Sumant Singh informed that construction of the railway line has been going on smoothly so far without hindrance from any quarters.

Though there are some problems with regard to a would-be affected village, the same is expected to be resolved very soon.

ADC Jiribam Y Iboyaima informed that the distance to be covered by the railway within Jiribam is just 10 kms.

Compensation have already been paid and earthwork completed.

Now laying of the rail track is being awaited.

Construction work on five major bridges and 15 other smaller ones are currently being undertaken, the ADC added.

It may be noted here that construction of the railway line from Jiribam to Tupul is being targeted for completion by 2012 and that of the remaining portion of 28 kms from Tupul to Imphal by 2014 .

On the other hand, there has been no marked improvement in the condition of the existing bridges along the National Highway 35 stretch just after crossing the Barak river upto Jiribam.

Nonetheless, BRO has undertaken construction of some new bridges.