Kohima, Aug. 1: Union minister for railways Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu laid the foundation stone of the Dhansiri (Dimapur)-Zubza new broad gauge line at Dimapur railway station complex today in the presence of governor P.B. Acharya, chief minister T.R. Zeliang and minister of state for railways Rajen Gohain.

Speaking on the occasion, Acharya regretted that despite the abundance of rich natural beauty and resources, the state does not have proper connectivity. "Though I am the governor, I find it difficult to reach Delhi when others can reach the US in 12-13 hours."

Harping on the potential of handloom, handicraft, agriculture and horticulture, the governor said connectivity could bring vibrancy to the economy of the state. He suggested forming a citizens' committee to supervise the problems during the construction of the railway project.

Prabhu said the government is in the process of ensuring development of northeastern states at a faster pace, admitting that the region has lacked development for too long. He assured the gathering that the project would be completed on time.

The minister said the railways department will use higher technology to monitor the project. He expressed optimism that better education and health services could be availed by the people through railway connectivity.

Zeliang termed the day a red letter day in the history of Nagaland and that the railway line would greatly ease the movement of goods and passengers to state capital Kohima. He promised that the state government would do its part in assisting and facilitating smooth implementation of the project so that it is completed on time.

The chief minister requested the railway ministry to expedite the process of approval for the proposed Dimapur-Tizit new broad gauge railway line and reconsider the proposal for Dhansiri-Karong new railway line with a provision to extend it along national highway up to Imphal as this would provide a shorter route to Imphal and beyond to Myanmar in line with the government's Look East policy.

The project of the 88km Dimapur to Zubza (Kohima) new broad gauge line was sanctioned by the Railway Board in 2007-08. Considering its importance, it was declared a national project in 2007.

The new line will take off from the existing rail head at Dhansiri railway station in Karbi Anglong district, 19km short of Dimapur, and reach Zubza which is 16km short of Kohima. This railway line would bring the capital city of Kohima onto the broad gauge railway map of the country.

Zeliang made an appeal to the people of the state, especially the landowners along the new railway line, to cooperate with the NF Railways, and also to assist and facilitate the contractors and their workers, so that the project can be completed within the stipulated time.