Silchar : Barak Valley’s future is our priority, and every effort of the Government of Assam is directed to ensure that,” asserted Assam Chief Secretary Ravi Kota, IAS, during his official visit to Cachar district on Sunday. The visit, a key leg of his four-day tour of Barak Valley, underscored the State Government’s emphasis on infrastructure development, inclusive education, healthcare enhancement, and citizen engagement in the region.

After earlier stops in Shribhumi and Hailakandi, Kota reached Silchar where he held a comprehensive review meeting at the newly inaugurated conference hall of the Deputy Commissioner’s office. Cachar Deputy Commissioner Mridul Yadav, IAS, and senior officials from various departments were present during the session.

A major portion of the review focused on critical infrastructure initiatives being undertaken by the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL). Projects such as the four-lane Silchar–Vairengte corridor, the Panchgram bypass, and the much-awaited Badarpur bypass targeted for completion by August 2026 came under scrutiny.

The Chief Secretary also examined progress on the Capital Point to Rangirkhari road stretch and the construction of a Bailey bridge, which are expected to ease traffic flow and strengthen intra-valley connectivity.

Kota instructed NHIDCL officials to address bottlenecks without delay and ensure time-bound execution. “Efficiency and urgency must go hand-in-hand if we are to achieve real change,” he emphasized.

Education and healthcare two key pillars of the development agenda received focused attention. The Chief Secretary reviewed the readiness of a women’s college and a residential school in Sonai, both expected to be operational soon. He emphasized the importance of ensuring basic facilities like electrification, safe drinking water, and adequate furniture before the institutions welcome students.

He also took stock of model schools being developed for tea garden communities, reflecting the State’s inclusive approach to education.

In the healthcare sector, Kota reviewed the progress of the nearly complete 50-bed Critical Care Block at S.M. Dev Civil Hospital and the upcoming 500-bed Emergency Hospital at Silchar Medical College and Hospital. While commending the speed of implementation, he urged health officials to maintain momentum and adhere to project deadlines.

Other departments, including Agriculture, Water Resources, Excise, and Education, also presented updates. The Chief Secretary offered constructive feedback and encouraged cross-departmental coordination to deliver visible outcomes.

Later in the day, Kota met prominent citizens, senior community members, and public representatives in an interactive session at the old conference hall of the DC’s office. He reiterated the Assam Government’s unwavering commitment to the holistic development of Barak Valley.

Highlighting projects such as the Guwahati–Silchar highway upgrade, expansion of railway connectivity, and several social development initiatives, he reassured stakeholders that the region remains a top priority for the administration.

Attendees welcomed the Chief Secretary’s message, appreciating the government’s proactive.

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