Northeast Desk, 15th February: As the Assembly Elections loom in Arunachal Pradesh, the political arena is abuzz with activity, marked by promises and project rollouts. Among these, the recent commencement of the Garu to Gensi road project in the Lower Siang district, under the 28th Likhabali constituency, has stirred both optimism and skepticism among locals.
The 21-kilometer stretch of the Garu to Gensi road, integral to the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), was inaugurated by Kardo Nyigyor, the MLA representing the 28th Likhabali Assembly constituency. The event witnessed the presence of officials from the Rural Work Department (RWD), contractors, public leaders, and enthusiastic youths from the area.
Despite being in proximity to the Likhabali district headquarters and the NH15 national highway in Assam, the Gensi circle has long grappled with inadequate road infrastructure, leaving its ten remote villages isolated from better connectivity.
Addressing concerns about the project’s timing amidst the upcoming elections, MLA Kardo Nyigyor refuted any political motives, asserting that the project was sanctioned under the PMGSY III scheme. He clarified that the extensive documentation process for tender and approval consumed six months, leading to the project’s eventual commencement, slated for completion within two years.
“This road has been a longstanding demand of the locals,” Nyigyor emphasized. “Its inception dates back to 1964, plagued by challenges such as poor alignment and susceptibility to seasonal damage due to heavy rains.”
The MLA elaborated on his efforts to secure funding, recounting unsuccessful attempts under various schemes before finally obtaining approval under PMGSY. He highlighted his track record of initiating development projects in his constituency, including roads, school infrastructures, and medical institutions.
While the project’s initiation offers hope for improved connectivity and socio-economic development, skepticism persists regarding its timing and execution, with critics questioning its potential exploitation as an election ploy.
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