Correspondent
KOILAMATI, Jul 27: In a determined show of unity, residents of Sarthe Tokbi village in Chokihola, under the Nilip Block, carried out a social work initiative on Friday to construct a bridge over the Kirilangso River. The villagers took up the task after years of appeals for assistance reportedly went unanswered.
Local residents expressed concern over the continued neglect of their village, despite repeated promises of development by successive party in power. Locals stated that the original wooden bridge—now severely damaged—was constructed during the tenure of the Autonomous State Demand Committee (ASDC) government in the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC), and has since deteriorated without significant intervention, even during the subsequent Congress and current BJP-led administrations.
“We have approached the KAAC multiple times seeking help to repair the bridge and improve connectivity to our village, but unfortunately, no positive response has been received,” said a resident, voicing the community’s long-standing concern.
Taking matters into their own hands, the villagers pooled resources to hire a JCB excavator at the cost of ₹1,700 per hour, funded through contributions from a few individuals. Additionally, local social worker Bida Teron of Chokihola extended his support by covering a portion of the hiring cost, enabling the work to move forward.
The village headman, Monison Tokbi, along with fellow residents, has made a heartfelt appeal to KAAC Chief Executive Member Dr. Tuliram Ronghang, urging the council to sanction a permanent bridge over the Kirilangso River. The community hopes this long-overdue infrastructure will finally bring an end to decades of hardship and isolation.
It may be mentioned that the village has over 210 families and but continued to be neglected for more than two decades.