Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Monday announced a Rs 10 crore package for the construction and improvement of inter-village roads in Andro Assembly constituency while inaugurating a newly built Ima Market and two bridges over the Thoubal River.
The Chief Minister inaugurated the Ima Market shed and bridges at 1.10 km Khungdongbam Mapa and 1.80 km Wangkhem Siphai Leikai in the presence of Andro MLA Thounaojam Shyamkumar.
Addressing the gathering, Khemchand said it was his second visit to Andro since assuming office under the new government and described the constituency as an area of significant historical, cultural and tourism importance.
He said Andro is known for its centuries-old ritual fire at the Panam Ningthou Temple, which continues to burn and attracts researchers and visitors from across India and abroad. He also described Andro as one of Asia’s oldest settlements.
The Chief Minister also said the government would take steps to construct a Municipal Council office in Andro, noting that the constituency currently lacks such a facility.
Referring to the ethnic conflict that has continued for over three years, Khemchand said peace remains the foundation of development. He said the unrest has affected inter-community relations, education and the state’s economy.
Appealing to all communities in the hills and the valley to cooperate in restoring peace, he expressed hope that Manipur could return to the harmony that existed before May 3, 2023, when all communities lived together peacefully.
Speaking at the programme, Andro MLA Thounaojam Shyamkumar said development activities in the constituency had slowed because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the ongoing conflict and other unforeseen challenges. He expressed confidence that development work would gather pace under the new government.
During the event, welfare associations, youth clubs and local organisations submitted memoranda to the Chief Minister seeking road improvements, construction of a Municipal Council office, retaining walls, appointment of primary school teachers and implementation of other local development projects.
Deputy Commissioner (Imphal East) Lairenlakpam Nivedita, senior officials of the Planning Department and district administration, public representatives and local residents attended the programme.