Imphal, March 29 2010: Now almost 30 years old, a new completion target has been set for the Thoubal Multipurpose Project.

This time it is March, 2011 .

Though construction work of the Thoubal Multipurpose Project started way back in 1980, the State Government is unable to complete the project.

Chief Minister Okram Ibobi today made an inspection visit of some projects taken up by the SPF Government with assistance from the Centre.

After making a spot assessment of the progress achieved so far regarding execution of Thoubal Project, the Chief Minister claimed before media persons that the project can be completed by March next year.

Ibobi attributed the inordinate delay in executing the project to frequent blockades, bandhs and harassments to labourers.

Nevertheless, once completed, the project would provide several benefits to the surrounding localities in terms of potable water, water for irrigation and 7.5 MW of electricity.

As of now, it can be said that the project has been completed by 70 per cent.

The remaining portion of 30 per cent or so can be completed by March next year provided there is no undue disturbance.

To ensure security to the labourers working at the project site, around 100 additional MR/IRB personnel would be deployed at the site, the Chief Minister stated.

The Thoubal Multipurpose Project is one project which is of vital interest to the Centre.

Ibobi conceded that at times New Delhi viewed the SPF Government with suspicion because of the many projects which remain incomplete in the State.

He further underscored the crucial importance of public cooperation in order to complete projects in time which would benefit the people.

Stating that projects taken up in the State are not for the benefit of one or two group(s) of people, Ibobi called upon all to give up the tendency of putting up impediments against Government sponsored projects.

He pointed out that the Keithelmanbi Barrage has benefited people of the surrounding area since it was commissioned in 1991 .

The Chief Minister further stated that some other projects like the Dolaithabi Barrage, Khuga Dam etc would be commissioned soon.

Besides providing water for irrigation and human consumption, these projects would also help in mitigating the power crisis being faced by the State at least to some extent, he exuded.

The Chakpi Multipurpose Project would also be taken up soon, he added.

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