CM supports water-linking

SHILLONG, DEC 2: Meghalaya chief minister Mukul Sangma strongly supported the inter-linking of rivers by the centre.  He told union minister for water resource, river development and Ganga rejuvenation Uma Bharti when he met her in Delhi. Bharti discussed various issues related to her ministry with Sangma.

Bharti showed keen interest in the various river projects of Meghalaya and assured all necessary help to the state from her ministry.  She stated that her ministry accords top priority to the development of northeastern region  and especially Meghalaya.

Bharti informed that she will hold the next meeting of Bharmputra Board at Shillong.  She stressed the need for a detailed water mapping of North East.

Sangma sought centre’s help in de-silting of rivers in the state and suggested that soil taken out after de-silting can be used for construction of embankments.  He suggested that a pilot project on this can be started in state.

Sangma said that he plans to develop his state as a major water sports and tourist destination and sought centre’s help in development of state water bodies. He was of the opinion that somehow Bharmputra Board could not deliver desired benefits and needs complete over haul.

Bharti requested Sangma to send a comprehensive river development proposal from his state.- By Our Reporter