WILLIAMNAGAR, April 5: Chief Minister Conrad Sangma has appealed for the preservation of Simsang river, especially at a time when reports of water scarcity coupled with reducing green cover in Garo Hills are surfacing.
The chief minister made the appeal after inaugurating a suspension footbridge over Simsang river in Chisobibra, East Garo Hills.
Constructed at a cost of 2.7 crore under MGNREGS, the 100-metre suspension footbridge is likely to benefit seven nearby villages.
Speaking during the inaugural programme as the chief guest, Conrad lauded the joint efforts of DRDA officials and villagers towards the project’s completion.
Conrad also informed that the government has allocated more funds in the new financial year for upgrade of roads in the state.
Apprising the villagers of the degradation of forest and scarcity of water in Garo Hills, the chief minister exhorted them to take initiatives for preservation of Simsang river.
The programme was also attended by Government Chief Whip Marcuise Marak, East Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner Swapnil Tembe, officials, Nokmas and locals.
Later on the day, the chief minister inaugurated 165-metre submersible bridge over Simsang and Kampil rivers, built at a cost of Rs 2.35 crore, and laid the foundation stone for upgrade and improvement of Rongram-Rongrenggre- Darugre road.
The chief minister also distributed cheques to 30 producer groups under FOCUS programme and smokeless chulas under Himalayan Global Expedition.
