Asserting that the River Arpa is not only the lifeline for the people in this part of State, but also the pride of Chhattisgarh that gives it a cultural identity, Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel said that State Government has taken several measures time to time to rejuvenate the river and in future also will continue to do so. The Chief Minister observed these views while virtually laying the foundation stone for Arpa Rejuvenation and Bank Restoration Works worth Rs 93.7 crore at Bilaspur through video conferencing from his official residence. He said that for the restoration of River Arpa, Arpa Bachao Andolan was initiated and foot marches were conducted which was participated by him and Speaker Dr Charan Das Mahant. Adding that we have emotional touch with the river, the Chief Minister said for a long time the Arpa re-development plan was pending and with the foundation laying ceremony, these dreams will be fulfilled gradually.

 

Under the project, 1.8 km long four-lane roads will be constructed on both sides of the river from Indira Setu to Shanichari Rapta, which will help ease traffic congestion in the city. Apart from the four-lane road, the dividers and both sides of the banks will be decorated with greenery and attractive solar lighting. Under the project, the silt deposited on Arpa river bed will be removed which will help in recharging water level of Bilaspur. In order to save the river from getting polluted, peripheral drains will be constructed on both sides of the river and sewage water coming from the city will be treated in Sewage Treatment Plant and then the treated water will be released in the river. This will help in controlling water pollution in the river to a great extent. Under the project, after carrying out pitching work on both banks, beautiful landscaping work will be done.

 

The Chief Minister said the whole country is fighting against the COVID-19 pandemic and the second spike has created challenges in Chhattisgarh as well. Collectively, the pandemic has been brought under control to a great extent with positivity rate coming down to 11 per cent from 30 per cent during April. Inoculation drives are carried in the whole state but even after vaccination people need to strictly follow COVID Appropriate Behaviour. The State has to face economic challenges due to this crisis but State Government will not compromise in carrying out implementation of schemes meant for improving life-style of people. For financial prudence, major construction works have been stopped for the time being, which will be completed later on. The programme was presided over by PWD and Home Minister Tamradhawaj Sahu while Urban Administration Minister Dr Shivkumar Daharia attended the programme virtually as Special Guest. Also present were MP Arun Sao, MLA Rashmi Ashish Singh, Mayor Ramsharan Yadav, MLA Shailesh Pandey, Zila Panchayat President Arun Singh Chauhan, Commissioner Sanjay Alang and Collector Saransh Mitter.