GUWAHATI: Underlining the strategic importance of inter-state boundary roads adjoining the hilly terrain of Assam with neighbouring north-eastern states, Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal directed the Border Areas Development Department to focus more on improving surface connectivity in the hilly tracts of Dima Hasao, Karbi Anglong and Kamrup district.
Reviewing the inter-state border development activities at Janata Bhawan here on Monday, Sonowal asked the Border Areas Development Department to spend the allocated budget amount for construction of all-weather roads in the hilly districts and Lampi area of Kamrup district.
Stating poor roads at border areas as major deterrent to development, Sonowal said that improved roads would facilitate swift movement of forces for maintenance of law & order and border monitoring, besides opening new business avenues for people living in the border and promoting local tourism.
Further mentioning that improved connectivity would foster unity and integrity and dissuade hatred, encroachment and prejudice, Sonowal said that it would also promote mutual interest of Assam and neighbouring states in the border areas.
The Chief Minister also directed the officials of Border Areas Development Department to draft a proposal for construction of four lane roads at border areas, especially in the hill districts. Sonowal said that he will take up the project with the NEC for sanctioning of the proposals.
Moreover, keeping in mind the importance of exchange of culture and ideas for mutual growth of Assam with neighbouring states, Chief Minister Sonowal directed the department to prepare plan for execution of border outreach programme at Dudhnoi in Goalpara district for Assam-Meghlaya border and Jonai in Dhemaji district for Assam-Arunachal border.
Highlighting the potentiality of scenic beauty and resources of border areas in terms of tourism, the Chief Minister also directed the Border Areas Development Department to take up a project for “Unity Home – A House of Friendship” offering food & lodging facilities for people of Assam and other neighbouring states.