Kangla bridge antique will be preserved: Biren

Imphal: Antique remnants of foundation of an ancient bridge found across Imphal River on eastern side of Kangla, the ancestral palace of the past Meitei rulers, would be preserved in its form, chief minister N. Biren Singh said on Saturday.

The old bridge which functioned as Eastern gate was found recently while excavating for the reconstruction of the historical bridge which existed till 1891 before it was dismantled by the British after the Anglo-Manipur War.

Biren said the antique remains of an old structure were found at the construction site and the sample had been sent for further archaeological research.

“The old structure would be preserved without causing any damage while constructing a new bridge over it,” Biren told reporters here.

The chief minister visited Kangla and had a glimpse of the antique remains. He took firsthand account of construction of the bridge over Imphal River at the eastern side of Kangla to pave the way for opening of Nongpok Thong (Eastern Gate) of the Fort.

Rajya Sabha MP Maharaja Sanajaoba Leishemba also moved a Special Motion during the ongoing Parliament Session to declare Kangla as a world heritage site.

“The state government is committed towards protection and preservation of sacred sites of Kangla and has been putting in efforts to revive the aged old culture and traditions of the state,” Biren said.

A footpath/cycling track and a recreational park would be constructed along the Imphal river at the eastern side of Kangla where no vehicles would be allowed to enter, he added.

The chief minister also visited Cheirao Ching and inspected the ongoing construction of Eco-tourism Park there. He said it will be inaugurated soon and open to public and tourists.

“Had the most magnificent bird’ eye view of Imphal from the newly constructed Imphal View Tower, Eco-tourism project … Had to climb more than 150 steps to get a glimpse of the most picturesque landscape of Imphal city and surroundings,” Biren writes on his Facebook wall.

Biren was accompanied by works minister Th.Biswajit, education minister Sorokhaibam Rajen, labour and employment minister Thokchom Satyabrata, MAHUD minister Okram Henry, deputy Speaker Kongkham Robindro, State Planning Board deputy chairman L. Rameshwor, Manipur Building and Other Construction Workers’ Welfare Board chairman Heikham Dingo and government officials among others.

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