CM reviews NDB assisted water supply project

By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Mar 2: Chief Minister Yumnam Khem-chand chaired a compre- hensive review meeting on the New Development Bank (NDB)-assisted Water Supply Project and met internally displaced persons at the Civil Secretariat, Mantripukhri  today.
Several MLAs and Chief Engineer and senior officials of the PHED attended the meeting.
On a post on Facebook, the Chief Minister said priority is being accorded to the construction and upgradation of water supply system.
"Chaired a comprehensive review meeting today at the Secretariat with Hon'ble MLAs and senior officials of PHED on the New Development Bank (NDB)-assisted Water Supply Project.
"The deliberations were constructive and strengthened with updated data inputs to further streamline implementation. Reiterated that priority is being accorded to the construction and upgradation of water supply systems, including elevated service reservoirs and extensive distribution networks, to ensure safe, sustainable, and equitable drinking water access across urban, semi-urban, and rural areas of Manipur," the Chief Minister said.
"Our commitment remains steadfast towards strengthening public infrastructure and delivering improved quality of life for every citizen in our journey towards a Viksit Manipur and Viksit Bharat, 2047," he added in the post.
In a separate post on Facebook, the Chief Minister also said he held a meeting with representatives of internally displaced persons at the Secretariat.
"Held a constructive and meaningful interaction today at the Secretariat with representatives of IDP Committees from the valley to review the current needs and requirements of our brothers and sisters residing in various relief camps," he said in the post.
"Engaged in detailed deliberations regarding the safe and dignified resettlement of IDPs from Moreh, Churachandpur and Kangpokpi who are yet to return to their homes. Reaffirmed that their resettlement remains a priority, and every necessary step is being carefully examined to ensure long-term security and stability.
"For families already resettled, we reviewed measures to strengthen their rehabilitation, livelihood support, and overall welfare so that they may rebuild their lives with confidence and dignity," said the CM.
Khemchand added that his Government stands committed to healing, rebuilding and moving forward together— ensuring peace, inclusivity and a secure future for every citizen of Manipur.
The Chief Minister also flagged off five Mahindra Bolero Camper (Pick Up) vehicles of the Excise Department at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat today.
Speaking to media persons, the Chief Minister called the initiative an important step towards strengthening the operational capacity and mobility of the Department. It will help in curbing illegal liquor activities, he added.
Since the lifting of prohibition on liquor in certain parts of the State with effect from December 6, 2023, people can now have access to non-adulterated Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) in a regulated manner. However, strict vigil and continuous monitoring are required in the field to ensure that the spirit of the Government’s decision is not compromised.
The addition of these new vehicles will significantly strengthen the department’s field operations, improve enforcement activities, and ensure more effective monitoring across the State.
With better mobility, officials will be able to respond promptly to field requirements, conduct inspections efficiently, and maintain better coordination among different stations and zones, said the Chief Minister.
Pointing out a major challenge in the Excise Department, he said instead of the required 706 staff, the Department is operated by only 113 employees.  Staff shortage has resulted in significant hurdles in enforcement of duties on the ground.
Stating that a notification was issued by the State Government last year in this connection, he expressed confidence that subsequent recruitment process will follow.
The flagging-off ceremony was attended by Khongbantabam Ibomcha, MLA of Lamlai AC; Heikham Dingo Singh, MLA of Sekmai AC; Sapam Kunjakeswor Singh, MLA, Patsoi AC; Thokchom Radheshyam Singh, MLA, Heirok AC; Mayanglambam Rameshwar Singh, MLA, Kakching AC; Dr Sapam Ranjan Singh, MLA, Konthoujam AC; Ram Muivah, MLA, Ukhrul AC; Hungyo Worshang, Commissioner of Excise and officials of the Excise Department, among others.