DC Chümoukedima Abhinav Shivam inaugurates the construction of single Line BG Tunnel No 7 in Tsiepama Village, Chümoukedima on February 20. (DIPR Photo)
Chümoukedima, February 20 (MExN): A crucial breakthrough occurred in the Dhansiri-Kohima New Line rail project. Underground excavation in ‘Portal 1 of Tunnel No 7’ in Tsiepama village began with the Deputy Commissioner of Chümoukedima, Abhinav Shivam doing the ceremonial task of inaugurating the excavation on February 20.
Spanning 6,610 meters, Tunnel No. 7 is poised to become the longest tunnel within the Phase III project.
According to the State DIPR, the project, vital for connectivity between Nagaland and Manipur, encountered substantial setbacks in Tsiepama village since 2021, significantly halting progress.
However, under DC Shivam's leadership, concerted efforts were made to resolve the impasse by engaging in numerous dialogues and meetings with the villagers, ultimately leading to the resumption of work from the previous year, it said.
The resolution of the deadlock at Tunnel No 7 was instrumental in advancing the project crucial to linking Nagaland with Manipur by rail, it added.
The Dhansiri-Kohima New Line project involves 82.5 km, with 8 stations including Dhansiri, Dhansiripar, Shokhuvi, Molvom, Pherima, Piphema, Menguzuma and Zubza. Additionally, it will have 24 major bridges, 156 minor bridges, 6 road overbridges, 15 road underbridges and 21 tunnels covering 31 km, the DIPR said.
The rail line is projected to revolutionise transportation in the state, enabling the efficient movement of essential commodities at a significantly reduced cost. This would bolster the state's economy and benefit the local population, it added.
Meanwhile, DC Shivam termed Tsiepama Village as a beacon of collaboration and engagement, demonstrating that even the most intricate challenges can be surmounted for development.
