“Barak Valley’s future is our priority”: Chief Secretary Ravi Kota reviews key projects

Way2barak, July 13 : “Barak Valley’s future is our priority, and every effort of the Government of Assam is directed to ensure that,” declared Assam’s Chief Secretary Shri Ravi Kota, IAS, during his visit to Cachar on Sunday, part of his four-day tour of the Barak Valley. Arriving in Silchar after visiting Shribhumi and Hailakandi districts, Shri Kota spent a packed day reviewing development projects, interacting with officials, and engaging with citizens a visit that reflected the government’s earnest resolve to accelerate the region’s progress.

The day began with a comprehensive review meeting in the new conference hall of the District Commissioner’s office, where CS  Shri Ravi Kota led deliberations alongwith Cachar’s District Commissioner,Shri Mridul Yadav IAS and with senior officials across departments. At the centre of the discussions were critical infrastructure projects undertaken by the National Highway Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), aimed at transforming connectivity in the Barak Valley. He closely examined the progress of the four-lane Silchar–Vairengte corridor, the Panchgram four-lane bypass, and the eagerly anticipated Badarpur bypass, which is slated for completion by August 2026. The Chief Secretary also reviewed the Capital Point to Rangirkhari road stretch and the construction of a Bailey bridge, highlighting their importance in alleviating traffic congestion and enhancing intra-valley access. Stressing efficiency, he urged NHIDCL officials to proactively resolve hurdles and avoid any unnecessary delays.

Education and healthcare ,two pivotal sectors ,also featured prominently in his agenda. Shri Kota reviewed the soon-to-be handed over women’s college and residential school in Sonai, ensuring that essential facilities like electrification, drinking water, and furniture are ready before students move in. He also examined the progress of tea garden model schools intended to uplift children of plantation workers, showcasing the government’s inclusive educational vision.

On healthcare, Shri Kota took stock of the construction of a 50-bedded Critical Care Block at S.M. Dev Civil Hospital, nearing completion, and reviewed the ambitious 500-bedded Emergency Hospital project at Silchar Medical College and Hospital. Pleased with the progress, he nevertheless urged the Health Department to sustain momentum to meet deadlines. Departments of Excise, Agriculture, Water Resources and Education, among others, presented updates on ongoing initiatives, receiving his guidance and encouragement to deliver results with coordinated efforts.

In the latter part of his visit, Shri Kota shifted to the old conference hall of the DC’s office for a candid interaction with prominent citizens, senior community members, and public representatives of Cachar. He spoke at length about the Assam Government’s unwavering commitment to the holistic development of Barak Valley, emphasizing that the government’s focus is not just on promises but on delivering visible, meaningful change.

Highlighting transformative initiatives like the Guwahati–Silchar highway, upgraded railway infrastructure, and numerous road and social development projects tailored to the valley’s needs, Shri Kota underscored that Barak Valley’s development remains a clear and active priority. His words struck a reassuring chord among the attendees, who welcomed the message that their aspirations and concerns are being heard and addressed with seriousness.

Shri Ravi Kota’s visit to Cachar not only reaffirmed the State Government’s developmental agenda but also sent out a strong signal of accountability, inclusivity, and action. His detailed reviews and heartfelt interactions reflected an administration committed to turning plans into progress and ensuring that the people of Barak Valley see and feel the benefits of development in their daily lives.