dedicates key road and bridge projects under PMGSY to Lohit
WAKRO, May 2: Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, while stressing the significant impact of improved connectivity, stated that better road networks are already contributing to reverse migration, expansion of agriculture, and growth of local enterprises, and called upon citizens to leverage enhanced connectivity to promote small-scale industries, value addition and tourism-based livelihoods.
The Dy CM made this observation while inaugurating a series of strategically important road and bridge projects constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY-III) in Lohit district’s Wakro circle.
Reaffirming the Government’s commitment to last-mile connectivity and inclusive development, the Dy CM along with WCD and Science & Technology Minister Dasanglu Pul and MLA Dr Mohesh Chai inaugurated the 193.05-metre Kamphai Bridge on the Kahre–Tillai road, now the longest bridge built under PMGSY in Arunachal Pradesh. Constructed using advanced Cement Treated Base (CTB) technology, the project significantly improves access to the Kathan belt villages - Tillai, Kamban, Tumba and Kathan while reducing travel time to Wakro and strengthening regional connectivity.
Moreover, the dignitaries inaugurated the NH-15 to Samblu road, along with a bridge over Phal Nallah, ensuring reliable all-weather access to a region that remained cut off during monsoons. The Medo–Namgo road, complemented by a bridge over Namgo Nallah, will further enhance inter-district connectivity and facilitate the movement of agricultural and tea produce to market centres. Several other bridges and road stretches, including those over Phai Nallah and Khraipong Nallah, were also dedicated to the public.
Speaking on the occasion, the Dy CM termed rural connectivity as the foundation of economic transformation, noting that the journey of PMGSY since its launch has fundamentally reshaped access, opportunity, and mobility across remote regions of the State.
Mein, while reflecting on the evolution of infrastructure development in the State, emphasized that Arunachal Pradesh has moved from a phase of limited road-building capacity to one defined by strict quality control, modern engineering practices, and robust monitoring systems. He noted that today, every road constructed under PMGSY undergoes multiple levels of quality checks, ensuring durability and long-term performance, according to a statement from the Dy CM’s media cell.
Acknowledging the unique challenges of the State - difficult terrain, high rainfall and increasing vehicular load – Mein stressed the importance of building resilient infrastructure and ensuring proper maintenance, and said: “Connectivity must not only reach the last village, but it must also sustain the needs of the future.”
He also outlined a forward-looking vision where road connectivity, power infrastructure, and economic development move in tandem. With major investments in hydropower and continued support from the Government of India, Arunachal Pradesh is poised for accelerated growth in the coming years. He expressed confidence that the State’s rich natural resources, strategic location, and improving infrastructure will position it as a key growth driver in the Northeast.
Further, the Dy CM called for a collective effort from implementing agencies to local communities to uphold quality standards and ensure that development reaches every corner of the State.
Among others, technical advisor K C Dhimole, Lohit DC K N Damo, SE (RWD) T Kena, Panchayat leaders and Govt officials were also present.