HT Correspondent
KHERONI, Feb 8: In a major boost to regional connectivity, the foundation stone for a strategic bridge over the Kopili River was officially laid on Sunday. The bridge will serve as a vital link between the West Karbi Anglong and Hojai districts.
The foundation stone was laid by the Chief Executive Member (CEM) of Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC), Dr Tuliram Ronghang. The bridge will connect the Sildubi area of West Karbi Anglong directly with Hojai district.
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The Project Cost is estimated cost of the project is Rs 74 Crore. The initial phase of the project is valued at Rs 38 Crore.
For years, residents of Sildubi and surrounding areas have faced significant challenges in crossing the Kopili River. This new infrastructure is expected to reduce travel time by drastically by to 20 minutes between the two districts. In addition it will facilitate the smoother transport of agricultural produce to markets in Hojai. It will give a boost to healthcare facilities and higher education centres for the local population.
During the ceremony, CEM Tuliram Ronghang emphasised the government’s commitment to transforming rural infrastructure and ensuring that remote areas are no longer left behind in the development race.
A girl student expressing gratitude to the new push in infrastructure said, “I am very grateful as a college student studying in Hojai I have to cross the river on a daily basis. When the flood comes we get wet and I have to attend college in those clothes, it is very uncomfortable. Sometimes the boat went capsized. It was very difficult. We used to miss our exams and accumulated ‘backs’. It is for development. I thank the CEM for this.”
The villagers express similar sentiment saying there are a lot of problems due to lack of a bridge, particularly the student community.
The CEM Dr Tuliram Ronghang on the sideline of the inauguration said, “It is a long standing need. The Sildubi Bazaar extends to Hojai. We intimated the matter to the chief minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma that it is very difficult to traverse between Sildubi and Hojai. The bridge has been sanctioned. Within a year the bridge will be completed, from tomorrow itself the process of construction will begin.”
In further initiative in pro people infrastructure development push the ruling dispensation is leaving no stone unturned with an aim to the coming assembly election.
