Guv urges coordinated, sustainable urban development, stresses upkeep of Hollongi–Itanagar Highway

ITANAGAR, Oct 6: State Governor Lt Gen (Retd) KT Parnaik on Tuesday called for sustainable commitment, efficient execution and close coordination among all stakeholder agencies to make Itanagar a future-focused, green and livable city.

The Governor made the call while reviewing the progress of key infrastructure projects in the Capital Region, including road infrastructure, with Itanagar Municipal Corporation (IMC) Mayor Likha Nari Tadar, IMC Commissioner Kego Jilen, Chief Engineer, Survey, Investigation, Design & Planning (SID&P), Bini Palen, and Executive Engineer, Naharlagun Highway Division, PWD, Hage Tajang, at Lok Bhavan here.

Parnaik said planned urban development should focus not only on creating modern infrastructure but also on making the city clean, efficient, environmentally sustainable and citizen-centric. He stressed that all civic initiatives, including roads, sanitation, drainage, traffic management, public amenities and urban beautification, should ultimately improve the quality of life of residents.

Highlighting Itanagar’s importance as the State capital, the Governor said the city should evolve into a model urban centre reflecting Arunachal Pradesh’s growth, cultural heritage and developmental aspirations.

He particularly stressed the need to maintain the Hollongi–Itanagar Highway, the gateway to the State capital, in a clean, safe and presentable condition. He asked the Highway Division to ensure timely repairs and regular maintenance, while urging the IMC to extend necessary support in maintaining cleanliness and civic amenities along the corridor.

The Governor also stressed continuous maintenance of road infrastructure by contractors engaged under the ‘Risk and Cost’ clause and called for regular monitoring to ensure quality and durability of works.

Appreciating the IMC’s efforts in maintaining cleanliness and sanitation, Parnaik said a clean city contributes to public health, civic pride and the overall image of the capital. He encouraged the Corporation to strengthen public awareness and community participation to make cleanliness a collective responsibility.

Reviewing the condition of highways and major roads in and around the Capital Region, the Governor expressed concern over stretches requiring attention and emphasised timely repairs and proactive infrastructure upkeep.

He said reliable road infrastructure was fundamental to urban growth, economic activity and public safety, while well-maintained highways would also support tourism, commerce and emergency services.

Parnaik urged all concerned agencies to work in close coordination and adopt a proactive, long-term approach to infrastructure management to ensure that Itanagar develops as a sustainable, green and future-ready capital.