Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh today called on Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari in New Delhi and discussed progress on key national highway projects in Manipur, while also seeking early approval for the proposed Elevated Highway project in the state.
During the meeting, the Chief Minister briefed the Union Minister on steps taken by the Manipur Government to address long-pending issues related to National Highway-37 (Imphal–Jiribam Road) and the Imphal–Dimapur highway. He informed Gadkari that land compensation issues in Noney district concerning NH-37 had been resolved following a revised survey and subsequent approval by the State Cabinet, enabling construction works to commence.
On the Imphal–Dimapur highway project, Khemchand Singh said matters relating to Kangpokpi district had been settled and that a special package had already been approved by the State Cabinet. He further informed the Union Minister that efforts were underway to resolve land-related issues affecting the Imphal–Ukhrul–Jessami highway through consultations with stakeholders.
The Chief Minister also requested early sanction of the Elevated Highway project, to which Gadkari reportedly responded positively.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh also attended the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ministry of Jal Shakti and the Government of Manipur for implementation of Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) 2.0. The programme was attended by Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil, Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho, Secretary of the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation Ashok K.K. Meena and other officials.
According to the State Government, JJM 2.0 marks a transition from infrastructure creation to ensuring sustainable and reliable drinking water services in rural areas through source sustainability, community participation, improved operation and maintenance systems and digital governance.
The Government of Manipur expressed confidence that the mission would strengthen rural drinking water supply and contribute to the broader goal of inclusive and sustainable development.