A high-level delegation from the Itanagar Municipal Corporation (IMC), led by Mayor Tamme Phassang and accompanied by Arunachal Pradesh Urban Development & Urban Local Bodies (UD&ULB) Minister Balo Raja, met with Union Minister of Housing & Urban Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar on Friday to discuss strategies for enhancing urban planning in the state. The meeting, held in New Delhi, focused on addressing critical infrastructure challenges and securing central support for ongoing and future projects.
The delegation briefed Khattar on the current state of urban development in Arunachal Pradesh, spotlighting issues such as inadequate housing, sanitation, and road networks, particularly in the capital, Itanagar. Mayor Phassang emphasized the need for sustained financial and technical assistance to improve drainage systems, advance smart city initiatives, and enhance urban connectivity. “We are committed to transforming Itanagar into a modern, sustainable city, but we need the Centre’s backing to make it happen,” he stated.
Minister Raja echoed these sentiments, highlighting the unique geographical and logistical challenges faced by the state. He urged the Union Minister to prioritize Arunachal Pradesh in national urban development schemes, stressing the importance of robust municipal governance and effective waste management systems.
In response, Khattar assured the delegation of the central government’s full cooperation. He pledged to provide the necessary resources to support Arunachal’s urban growth and encouraged closer collaboration between the state and the Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs to ensure efficient project execution. The Union Minister also commended the IMC’s efforts and underscored the importance of sustainable urban planning in the Northeast.
The discussions mark a significant step toward strengthening Arunachal Pradesh’s urban infrastructure, with both sides expressing optimism about future progress. As the state grapples with rapid urbanization, this partnership could pave the way for transformative changes in Itanagar and beyond.
