In a bid to accelerate urban development in Arunachal Pradesh, Itanagar Municipal Corporation (IMC) Mayor Tamme Phassang and Urban Development & Urban Local Bodies (UD&ULB) Minister Balo Raja met with Union Minister of Housing & Urban Affairs (MoHUA) Manohar Lal Khattar in New Delhi on March 21. The high-level meeting aimed to address critical urban challenges and secure central assistance for ongoing and future projects.
During the discussions, the delegation outlined key urban issues faced by Arunachal Pradesh, including the need for improved municipal governance, enhanced solid waste management, and the development of road infrastructure. They also provided an overview of ongoing projects under the ministry’s jurisdiction and stressed the importance of strengthening urban planning in the capital city, Itanagar, and other urban regions. The leaders emphasized the necessity of consistent support to meet the growing demands of urbanization in the state.
Mayor Tamme Phassang highlighted the urgent need for comprehensive financial and technical aid to sustain development efforts. He specifically requested assistance for initiatives such as advanced drainage systems, smart city projects, and improved urban connectivity. The Mayor underscored that sustained collaboration with the central government is crucial to transforming Itanagar into a modern and efficient urban hub, capable of addressing future infrastructural demands.
Following the detailed discussions, Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar assured the delegation of the central government’s full cooperation. He pledged to extend all possible assistance to meet Arunachal Pradesh’s urban development goals and urged the state government to maintain active engagement with the ministry. Khattar reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to fostering the region’s growth and ensuring the smooth implementation of urban policies.
Prior to the meeting with the Union Minister, Mayor Phassang and Minister Raja also engaged in talks with S.P. Singh, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs, and Joint Director Sri Dillion. These discussions centered on expediting delayed projects and improving coordination between the state and central governments to accelerate the completion of key urban initiatives.
The meetings mark a significant step towards enhancing urban infrastructure in Arunachal Pradesh, with both governments aiming to work closely to address challenges and drive long-term development in the region.