Assam to propose development of Indo-Bangladesh border at Karimganj in line with the Indo-Pakistan border at Wagah

GUWAHATI: Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said that state government will send a proposal to the central government to develop Indo-Bangladesh border at Karimganj in line with the Indo-Pakistan border at Wagah so as to attract tourism as well as promoting nationalistic sentiment.

Sonowal said that the State government is committed to equal development of Brahmaputra and Barak valley and several steps have been taken to boost brotherhood amongst the people living in the districts of both the valleys.

Chief Minister Sonowal said this during the discussion on faster socio-economic development of Barak valley as part of Speaker's initiative at Assam Legislative Assembly.

Stating that there was a sense of alienation amongst the people of Barak Valley earlier, Chief Minister Sonowal said that people of the entire state must internalise the feelings, aspirations, suffering and pains of the people of the valley to foster better camaraderie and bonhomie. Such an approach would not only strengthen the bond but also act as a catalyst in building a strong and vibrant Assam.

The Chief Minister said that already steps have been taken to set up a mini secretariat at Silchar which would facilitate easy access of government services by the people of the valley. Sonowal informed that efforts are afoot to set up another airport at Barak Valley to boost economic growth of the state. The Chief Minister also urged the public representatives of the Barak Valley districts to join their hands together with the state government in its development initiatives in the valley.

Sonowal also urged the people of the state to share the responsibility with the armed forces in safeguarding the national border and act responsibly to strengthen border security. The Chief Minister made this call while taking part at the inaugural session of Assam State Conference of Seemanta Chetana Mancha Purvottar (SCMP).