Khonsa, Jul 16: In his first field visit after assuming office, Tirap Deputy Commissioner Badonlum Tawsik on Thursday visited remote Indo-Myanmar border villages under Lazu administrative circle to review development works under the Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP) and assess the condition of critical road infrastructure.
The Deputy Commissioner was accompanied by Lazu Block ZPM Najen Rangwang, Assistant Commissioner-cum-EAC (i/c) Lazu N L Naam, PWD engineers Minter Ango and Kijen Ransong, DDC (NABARD) Rowncha Wangsu, BRO engineer Abhishek, Capt Sumit Sharma of 44 Assam Rifles, GBs, Panchayat leaders and representatives of the Noglo Welfare Society.
During the visit, the Deputy Commissioner inspected the vulnerable Pongkong block point on the Khonsa-Lazu Road and reviewed the progress of the proposed diversion road from Sanliam village. PWD officials briefed him on the proposed alignment, survey findings and ongoing jungle clearance work.
Inspecting the landslide-prone Pongkong stretch, the DC expressed concern over frequent road blockages that disrupt connectivity to interior border villages. He directed the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) to keep adequate manpower and machinery on standby for the immediate restoration of traffic whenever landslides occur.
Emphasising the importance of uninterrupted connectivity, he said all-weather roads are vital for the movement of people, transportation of essential commodities, emergency services and effective implementation of government programmes in border areas.
Reviewing the progress of the Vibrant Villages Programme, Tawsik urged village authorities and residents of Noglo to extend full cooperation to implementing agencies to ensure timely completion of developmental projects. He said the programme has the potential to transform border villages through improved infrastructure, enhanced livelihood opportunities and better public services.
Addressing public grievances over Aadhaar enrolment, the DC directed the EAC, Lazu, to organise a special Aadhaar biometric enrolment and updation camp for the border villages of Noglo, Upper Chinhan, Lower Chinhan and Lonyen, facilitating access to education, welfare schemes and other government services.
The DC also interacted with village elders, community leaders and residents, assuring them of the district administration's commitment to strengthening infrastructure and improving public service delivery in the remote border region.
Residents of Sanliam, Pongkong, Lazu and Noglo welcomed the DC’s maiden visit, expressing hope that it would expedite development works, improve road connectivity and resolve long-pending issues. They also reaffirmed their support for the successful implementation of projects under the Vibrant Villages Programme. (DIPRO)