Eco-Tourism Project opened at Cheirao Ching

IMPHAL, Feb 24 (DIPR)
Chief Minister N Biren Singh inaugurated Eco Tourism Project at Thangmeiband Cheirao Ching in Imphal West district today. The project was developed under Non Lapsable Central Pool of Resources (NLCPR) Scheme, DoNER Ministry.
Speaking at the occasion, N Biren Singh said that people in Manipur used to live amidst tensions within the confines of their homes and there was limited leisure in life. However, with improvement in the law and order situation in the past few years, the Government had been trying to give leisure spaces to the people by developing such sites which could also attract tourists.
The Chief Minister informed that the foundation stone for Cheirao Ching Eco Tourism Project developed at an estimated cost of around Rs 15 crore was laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit in March 2018. The project was completed within three years though it was hindered for quite a long time due to delay in getting Forest/Environment clearance and COVID-19 pandemic.
Stating that it is heartening to learn that local clubs of Thangmeiband are ready to get involved in running the tourist site, the Chief Minister said that a modality would be formulated soon in consultation with the local MLA and local clubs for the operation and maintenance of the site. He further said that the Government is planning to install electric cars for old-aged and differently abled people, who wish to reach the towers located in the hilltop.
He also said that solar lamps would be installed up to the hilltop and security would be deployed for the safety and security of the visitors at night as well. Hoping that the project would benefit the local people, he sought support and cooperation from them for proper maintenance and running of the site.
Regarding COVID-19, he said that people still need to be careful and strictly maintain Covid Appropriate Behaviours because some States are currently facing the second wave of the pandemic. As a preventive measure, Biren said, testing of passengers coming from five States has already begun at Bir Tikendrajit International Airport.  
Tourism Minister Oinam Lukhoi, CAF and PD Minister Thokchom Satyabrata, Deputy Speaker Kongkham Robindro and Thangmeiband AC MLA Kh Joykisan, Chief Secretary Dr Rajesh Kumar and other high ranking officials of the Government also attended the function.