Despite setbacks, key tunnel linking Nagaland-Manipur inaugurated

Chumoukedima, 20 February (MTNews): Marking a significant push for Nagaland-Manipur connectivity, Deputy Commissioner of Chumoukedima, Abhinav Shivam, IAS, officially inaugurated the underground excavation in Portal 1 of Tunnel No. 7, which had faced substantial setbacks since 2021 in Tsiepama. The inauguration ceremony took place on 20 February, at Tsiepama village, Chümoukedima.

Tunnel No. 7, spanning a length of 6,610 meters, is set to become the longest tunnel within Phase III of the Dhansiri-Kohima New Line project. This project, vital for enhancing connectivity between Nagaland and Manipur, had encountered significant hurdles in Tsiepama village since 2021, stalling progress. However, under the leadership of DC Abhinav Shivam, concerted efforts were made to overcome these challenges, as stated in a DIPR report.

Serving as the convener, DC Abhinav Shivam engaged in numerous dialogues and meetings with the villagers, ultimately leading to the resumption of work from the previous year.

It is reported that the resolution of the deadlock at Tunnel No. 7 was instrumental in advancing the ambitious endeavor of linking Nagaland with Manipur and beyond. The project entails a total length of 82.5 kilometers, with 8 new stations including Dhansiri, Dhansiripar, Shokhuvi, Molvom, Pherima, Piphema, Menguzuma, and Zubza. Additionally, it encompasses 24 major bridges, 156 minor bridges, 6 Road Over Bridges, 15 Road Under Bridges, and 21 Tunnels covering 31 kilometers.

Upon its completion, the project is poised to revolutionize transportation, enabling the efficient movement of essential commodities such as food grains, automobiles, and various infrastructure and construction items to Nagaland at a significantly reduced cost, thereby bolstering the state’s economy and benefiting the local population.

DC Abhinav Shivam extended gratitude to Chumben Murry, NCS SDO(C)/RO Chumoukedima, the Village Council Chairman of Tsiepama, and Railway Officials for their unwavering commitment and proactive efforts towards the project’s success. He underscored Tsiepama Village as a beacon of collaboration and engagement, demonstrating that even the most intricate challenges can be surmounted for the development of Nagaland.

The tunnel’s opening ceremony witnessed the presence of Deputy Commissioner Abhinav Shivam and his team, alongside several railway officials, including Shubhanand Chanda, Dy CE, engineers, and the Village Council Chairman of Tsiepama village.