Arunachal Pradesh's Quest for Rural Connectivity: Challenges and Progress

Arunachal Pradesh's RWD Minister Pasang Dorjee Sona reports progress on rural road projects under the PMGSY in the state Assembly, citing 1,254 completed roads. Challenges remain due to difficult terrain, weather, and local disputes. The state seeks extension and flexibility from the Centre to meet connectivity goals.

During a recent assembly session, Arunachal Pradesh's Rural Works Department (RWD) Minister, Pasang Dorjee Sona, reported significant progress in rural road development under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY). Out of 1,309 roads sanctioned, 1,254 have been completed.

Minister Sona highlighted ongoing challenges in the completion of the remaining road projects, which are primarily located in remote areas beset by difficult terrain and a prolonged monsoon season that hampers construction efforts. Additionally, local land compensation disputes contribute to delays.

Despite these obstacles, the state government is actively working to connect more habitations with all-weather roads. The use of nano technology in road construction has not been fruitful due to the adverse conditions. The state seeks a deadline extension from the Centre to complete unfinished projects and calls for public cooperation in monitoring construction for transparency and quality.

(With inputs from agencies.)