Paona Keithel reflects poorly on Smart City Project Open drains adorn market area

By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Jun 2: "Poor execution" of the Imphal Smart City Project has left Paona Bazar in a sorry state, claimed former Sagolband AC MLA Dr Kh Loken today.
The Congress leader made the statement during an inspection drive carried out at the market area with party workers.
Major development of Thangal Keithel and Paona Keithel started under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) during 2008-2009.
Apart from providing uninterrupted power supply, roads, drainage systems and other infrastructure were developed and revamped with the engagement of MAHUD, PWD, PHED and Electricity Departments. Further, many saplings were also planted to beautify the area, he said.
The Imphal Smart City Project was launched in recent years and huge amounts of funds were sanctioned under the project. However, the condition of the market has not improved. "In fact, the condition of the market has worsened, troubling the market goers and the public. Even trees have been found cut down," Dr Loken said.
The current state of the market reflects poor execution of the project. All works related to the development of the market must be executed to meet the required standard. The Chief Minister and the authorities concerned should look into the works being taken up and ensure quality and timely completion, he said.