Assam CM Sarbananda Sonowal pitches for all-weather roads in inter-state border

Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Monday pitched for all-weather roads adjoining the hilly terrains of Assam with neighbouring states.

Sonowal directed the Border Areas Development Department (BADD) to focus on improving surface connectivity in the hilly tracts of Dima Hasao, Karbi Anglong and Kamrup districts of the state.

Reviewing inter-state border development activities here, he said improved roads would facilitate swift movement of forces for maintenance of law and order, opening new business avenues for people living in the border and promoting local tourism.

Sonowal asked the BADD to spend the allocated budget amount for construction of all-weather roads in the hilly districts and Lampi area of Kamrup district.

He also directed the department to draft a proposal for construction of four lane roads in border areas, especially in the hilly districts to be taken up with the North Eastern Council (NEC) for sanctioning.

BADD was also asked to prepare a plan for border outreach programme at Dudhnoi in Goalpara district bordering Meghalaya and Jonai in Dhemaji district bordering Arunachal Pradesh for exchange of culture and ideas.