Community-built bridge inaugurated in Sowa Changle

W Manpai Phom and others during the inauguration of a wooden bridge over Chiyong River in Sowa Changle village on May 7.

• DIMAPUR — A newly constructed community wooden bridge over Chiyong River in Sowa Changle Village under Mon district was inaugurated by deputy commissioner (DC) of Longleng, W Manpai Phom, on May 7.
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• A DIPR report stated that the bridge was constructed through the joint initiative of team Lemsachenlok and the villagers of Sowa Changle.
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• Speaking at the inaugural programme, the DC congratulated everyone on the successful completion of the bridge and termed as a significant day for the people of the Phom and Konyak communities. He underscored the importance of proper road connectivity for transportation and emergency purposes.
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• He expressed gratitude to Dr. Y Nuklu Phom, chairman and team leader of Lemsachenlok and the villagers of Sowa Changle for their collaboration in such community welfare projects.

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• Also speaking on the occasion, the Superintendent of Police, Longleng, Yanger, has urged people not to merely observe and comment on the good work of others but to actively participate in community activities. He added that the bridge would serve a significant purpose for the community.
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• The president of Phom People’s Council (PPC), YB Angam, remarked that while it is easy to criticise any undertaking, accomplishing a task is considerably more challenging. He stated that the construction of the simple yet valuable bridge would serve as an eye-opener for the concerned authorities.
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• He also spoke about the importance of unity among all the neighbouring villages of the Phom and Konyak communities, emphasising that unity fosters progress and development.
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• Meanwhile, Dr. Y Nuklu Phom has commended the villagers of Sowa Changle for their efforts in completing the construction of the community bridge. He pointed out that while the rest of the world is advancing with overpasses and flyovers, many communities in their region still struggle with basic road connectivity.
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• He stated that during the monsoon season, a journey of just a few kilometres takes three to five hours or even an entire day due to the absence of a simple bridge across a 50 to 60-foot stream. He added that the delay not only consumes time and fuel but also severely impacts those in urgent need, especially the sick persons who are often forced to endure long hours of travel.
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• He further stated that the bridge would serve to link people, save time and stand as a witness that their communities are united.
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• The programme was chaired by S Manpong, village council chairman (VCC), while Mopa, pastor of SCBC, said the invocation prayer, and Phaknyu Angh delivered the welcome address.