Wakro, May 2: Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein on Friday inaugurated a series of major road and bridge infrastructure projects under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY-III) in Wakro circle of Lohit district, marking a significant step toward strengthening rural connectivity and accelerating socio-economic development in the region.
 |
| Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein addresses the gathering during the inauguration of key PMGSY-III road and bridge projects at Wakro in Lohit district. (Image: X/ChownaMeinBJP) |
The projects, aimed at improving transportation networks and ensuring all-weather access to remote villages, are expected to benefit thousands of residents across Lohit district and adjoining areas. The inauguration reflects the state government’s continued focus on enhancing infrastructure in rural and border regions to improve livelihoods and boost economic activities.
One of the highlights of the programme was the inauguration of the 193.05-metre-long Kamphai Bridge on the Kahre–Tillai road, which is now recognized as the longest bridge constructed under PMGSY in Arunachal Pradesh. Built using advanced Cement Treated Base (CTB) technology, the bridge is expected to dramatically improve connectivity to the Kathan Belt villages, including Tillai, Kamban, Tumba, and Kathan. The new bridge will reduce travel time, improve accessibility, and facilitate smoother movement of people and goods to and from Wakro.
Mein also inaugurated the NH-15 to Samblu road project, along with a bridge over Phal Nallah, which will provide reliable all-weather connectivity to areas that were frequently cut off during the monsoon season. The project is expected to improve access to essential services, educational institutions, and markets for local communities.
Another major project inaugurated was the Medo–Namgo road along with a bridge over Namgo Nallah. This infrastructure is expected to enhance inter-district connectivity and support the transportation of agricultural produce, tea products, and other local commodities, thereby strengthening the rural economy.
In addition, several bridges, including those over Phai Nallah and Khraipong Nallah, were dedicated to the public. These projects are expected to improve last-mile connectivity and provide safer transportation links for residents living in remote villages.
Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Chief Minister described rural roads as the backbone of economic transformation and inclusive development. He said the PMGSY programme has revolutionized connectivity in remote parts of Arunachal Pradesh, opening new opportunities in education, healthcare, trade, tourism, and agriculture.
Mein emphasized that the state has increasingly adopted modern engineering techniques, strict quality-control measures, and advanced monitoring systems to ensure the durability and sustainability of infrastructure projects. He acknowledged the challenges posed by difficult terrain, heavy rainfall, and increasing vehicular traffic, stressing the need for resilient infrastructure capable of meeting future demands.
“Connectivity must not only reach the last village, but it must also sustain the needs of the future,” he said.
The Deputy Chief Minister further observed that improved road networks are contributing to reverse migration, agricultural expansion, and the growth of local enterprises in rural areas. He encouraged residents to capitalize on improved connectivity by promoting small-scale industries, value-added agricultural products, eco-tourism, and entrepreneurship.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Minister Dasanglu Pul, MLA and Advisor to the Health Minister Dr. Mohesh Chai, senior government officials, engineers, community leaders, and local residents.
Officials noted that the newly inaugurated infrastructure projects will significantly improve mobility, reduce travel time, and strengthen economic integration across the region, contributing to the broader development goals of Arunachal Pradesh.
