Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma Reviews Development Projects in Barak Valley
Overview of Development Projects
A file image of CM Sarma in Silchar (Photo: @himantabiswa / X)
Guwahati, Sept 30: On Wednesday, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma conducted a review of various development initiatives in Barak Valley, announcing plans to return for a comprehensive evaluation after the Durga Puja festivities.
This visit marked Sarma's first to the area since he began his second consecutive term, although he noted that his political commitments limited the depth of the review.
“We assessed several development projects in Barak Valley today, but due to my political schedule, we couldn't delve deeply. I will return after Durga Puja for a thorough review to ensure timely project completion,” he stated.
Addressing the deteriorating road conditions in Silchar, Sarma explained that the simultaneous execution of numerous projects was the primary cause.
He highlighted that the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) and the Public Works Department (PWD) are collaborating on road projects exceeding Rs 15,000 crore.
“The main issue is the extensive roadwork currently underway. NHIDCL and PWD are managing over Rs 15,000 crore worth of projects, and the simultaneous nature of these works has led to poor road conditions. They should have been executed sequentially,” Sarma remarked.
The Chief Minister expressed confidence that most road projects would reach completion within a year.
Regarding the planned flyover in Silchar, Sarma acknowledged that construction would disrupt local residents but affirmed that the project would move forward, with test piling already completed.
“Once we commence flyover construction, we anticipate increased complaints, and I am apprehensive, but we must proceed as the test pile has been completed,” he noted.
Sarma indicated that residents might experience inconveniences for two to two-and-a-half years during the construction phase, but he emphasized that such challenges are inherent in significant infrastructure projects.
“Development entails challenges,” he remarked, referencing the initial difficulties faced by residents during the construction of flyovers in Guwahati, which later garnered public approval.
He underscored the necessity of on-site reviews of development efforts rather than relying solely on assessments from Guwahati.
“When we conduct reviews here, we can identify solutions,” Sarma stated, adding that the Model Code of Conduct, due to the upcoming Silchar civic polls on October 3, limited the scope of his current review.
He suggested that regular visits from the Chief Secretary, ministers, and other officials would facilitate direct issue resolution and expedite project implementation.
“If the Chief Secretary, myself, or other ministers visit monthly to discuss issues, we can advance many initiatives firsthand,” he explained.
Sarma also mentioned that he had interacted with over 200 individuals during his visit who were unable to travel to Guwahati to voice their concerns.
“Having the government accessible at the local level is highly beneficial,” he concluded.
When asked about his potential visit to Barak Valley during Durga Puja, Sarma indicated that his schedule would depend on the election timeline.
“Let the elections conclude first. If my schedule permits during Puja, I will visit Barak Valley. Regardless, I plan to return for two days after Puja,” he confirmed.