Assam CM stresses on ecological issues regarding road project

Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi on Thursday said ecological and environmental balance has to be maintained while constructing the 3,300-km East-West Corridor or the Silchar-Saurashtra Mahasadak project, which has been marred by delays.

"It is not easy. There are complicated environmental issues. The ecological and environmental issues have to be taken into account. There has to be a balance between ecology and development," Gogoi told IANS here, two days ahead of the release of his book 'Turnaround -- Leading Assam from the Front'.

Construction of the road project in Cachar district of Assam was interrupted owing to delay in clearances from the forests and environment departments.

Asked why these questions were not raised when the project was planned, the chief minister said: "The non-governmental bodies are now becoming aware and raising objections. I want to get the project completed provided the ecological balance is maintained."

He also stressed that the Barak Valley in Assam was not neglected.

"The Barak Valley is, of course, lagging behind. That's why last time we gave Rs.1,000- crore special package. It is true that certain areas are lagging behind, even in upper Assam."

"I don't agree there is a sense of neglect among the valley people. Allocation of funds will speak for the fact. They are not neglected. If the MLAs are not utilising the funds properly, then they are to be blamed," the chief minister added.

--IANS

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