By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Feb 14: In a rare visit of its kind, Governor Dr SS Sidhu paid a visit to a number of villages in the interior areas of Chandel district including Samtal today.
The Governor first flew by helicopter to Changjol from where he travelled to Old Somtal by road. There he interacted with the villagers of Old Somtal, S Bongjoi, Wonjang, Tuitang, Sehlon, Changjol, Phoilen, M Gamnuam, Phoipenkot, Kovang etc, informed a press release issued by the Raj Bhawan.
Against various urgent requirements put forth by the villagers, the Governor indicated that priority must be given to road network, public health, education and employment besides early establishment of civil and police administration.
The Governor accompanied by IG AR (South) BK Chengapa was received by the DC and SP of Chandel district and other senior officers of the security officers deployed there at Changjol.
Interacting with local villagers and people of surrounding villages at Khengjoi, the Governor said that construction of infrastructure for the block headquarters as well as the development work of the road from Chakpikarong to Khengjoi are being taken up in phases.
On his next stop, the Governor visited Moreh where he inspected the Land Custom Station and also the site identified for Integrated Check Post.
After listening to the grievances highlighted by the leaders of various community organisations, Dr Sidhu assured that he will look into their grievances and convey the same to the State Government for necessary timely action.
Addressing a meeting with leaders of different communities at the border town, Dr Sidhu highlighted the strategic importance of Moreh not only for Manipur but also for India, reports our Moreh correspondent.
Stating that the estimated cost of the proposed Integrated Check Post is Rs 120 crores, the Governor noted the necessity to increase the items of trade between India and Myanmar through Moreh and also to instal foreign exchange facility.
Peeved at finding the weight bridge out of order in the Land Custom Station, Dr Sidhu instructed the officials concerned to make the weight bridge functional at the earliest.
Meanwhile, a press release issued by the PRO of Hqs IG AR (S) added that the Governor was briefed about the ground situation that existed before the launching of Operation Samtal II and the present situation.
Addressing villagers at Old Somtal and Khengjoi, Dr Sidhu expressed happiness that the area has been cleared of militants after 12 long years. The Governor also expressed satisfaction over the steps being taken up by security forces in the area while informing the villagers that AR posts have been established and will continue to remain in the area as long as necessary, conveyed the PRO. The Governor also presented sweets, ration and red blankets to the villagers at Old Somtal and Khengjoi.
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