Yumnam Khemchand Singh says the Jiribam-Tupul-Imphal railway line is set for completion by 2028.
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IMPHAL — Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Sunday said that the Jiribam–Tupul–Imphal railway connectivity project is targeted for completion by 2028, a development expected to significantly boost the state's economy by linking the capital with the national railway network.
Speaking to media persons in Imphal during the celebration marking "12 years of trust, progress and welfare" under the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led NDA government, Khemchand said the project would transform transportation in the state.
The 111-km railway line traverses the steep rolling hills of five districts in Manipur and comprises 11 stations, 52 tunnels and 148 bridges constructed across challenging terrain.
One of its key features is the world's tallest railway bridge pier, measuring 141 metres in height, which is currently under construction in Noney district.
Upon completion, the railway line is expected to reduce travel time between Jiribam, the state's first railhead, and Imphal from the present 10-hour road journey to approximately two-and-a-half hours by train.
The chief minister also said that the construction of the new integrated terminal at Bir Tikendrajit International Airport was progressing and was expected to be completed soon.
Lauding Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his leadership, Khemchand highlighted several initiatives undertaken by the NDA government in the state.
He said the establishment of the National Sports University in Manipur — the first institution of its kind in the country — recognised the exceptional sporting talent and spirit of the state's athletes.
Referring to the implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system in Manipur, Khemchand said the long-standing demand of the people was fulfilled by the NDA government on December 9, 2019.
He further noted that, for the first time in Manipur's history, a medical college had been established in the hill district of Churachandpur, describing it as a significant milestone in the state's healthcare sector.
Deputy Chief Minister Losü Dikho of the Naga People's Front said that India had achieved its emissions intensity reduction target of 33-35 per cent from 2005 levels 11 years ahead of schedule, adding that reductions had already exceeded 36 per cent.
Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam said that border fencing work along the Indo-Myanmar border was being undertaken on a war footing.
Tourism Minister Kh. Loken Singh also addressed the media briefing.
Body of missing girl found
The body of a young girl who had been missing after being swept away by the swollen Khuga River was recovered on Sunday, ending a massive three-day search operation in Manipur's Churachandpur district.
The Class VIII student of Radhakrishnan Foundation School in Tuibong subdivision was swept away at Laijon Veng on Thursday afternoon after heavy rainfall triggered flash floods across parts of the district.
According to district officials, local youth clubs, civil society organisations, philanthropic groups and volunteers had been involved in continuous search efforts since the incident.
Following a requisition from the Sub-Divisional Officer of Tuibong, endorsed by the Deputy Commissioner and chairperson of the District Disaster Management Authority, a team from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) was deployed from Imphal.
The team began operations from Zero Point, where the girl was last seen being carried away by the strong current. Her body was eventually recovered on Sunday.