Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh announced that the foundation for the Imphal Ring Road Project, costing Rs 17.66 billion, was laid. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is set to provide a financial assistance of Rs 13.74 billion for the project.
The Imphal Ring Road Project, spanning 51.23 km, began in 2015-16 and received approval in 2020. Its purpose is to alleviate traffic congestion and reduce pollution in the Imphal West district. State Works Minister Govindas Konthoujam highlighted an interesting feature of the project: a noise pollution control mechanism, the first of its kind in India.
Konthoujam explained that 9.5 km of the road would be four-lane, while 41.5 km would be two-lane with paved shoulders. Additionally, there would be an 18 km stretch of green field with solar lamps, footpaths, and cycle lanes. Along the four-lane stretch, amenities like food plazas would be established, and cycle and jogging lanes would be included in a 1 km stretch.
During the foundation stone laying ceremony, Chief Minister Singh acknowledged the challenges faced by Manipur and assured that the state government would protect it from vested interest groups seeking disintegration. He emphasized the importance of unity among the people, seeking their support and cooperation. Singh mentioned that the government is committed to various developmental projects aimed at improving living standards, urging leaders to prioritise the welfare of those at the grassroots.
Discussing other projects, Singh mentioned the Lamphelpat Waterbody Rejuvenation Project, with an estimated cost of around Rs 6.5 billion. The project includes 300 acres of water body area and around 140 acres for a recreation center. The government plans to connect the recreation centre with the Imphal View Tower at Cheirao Ching through a cable car. Singh expressed satisfaction that migratory birds, absent for around 109 years, are now visible at the Lamphelpat waterbody.
The Chief Minister raised concerns about environmental degradation through mass deforestation and the potential water scarcity problem in the future. He stressed the necessity of preserving water bodies.
