Itanagar: A delegation from the UK-based Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) on Friday (July 25) conducted a preliminary inspection of historical sites associated with World War II in Arunachal Pradesh’s Changlang district.
The CWGC aims to restore and upgrade these sites to international memorial standards, boosting both historical remembrance and heritage tourism in the region.
The delegation, led by CWGC regional head for Indian subcontinent Amit Bansal, surveyed the WWII cemetery, Laal Pool, Hamilton Bridge, Hell Gate, and the historic stretch of the Old Stilwel Road leading to Pangsau Pass.
This reconnaissance mission was designed to assess the current state of these monumental sites and identify areas for necessary upgrades.
The step aims at elevating these remnants of history to Commonwealth standards, an official statement said.
The visit was spearheaded by MLA Laisam Simai of the 51st Nampong Constituency, emphasising the local government’s strong commitment to this initiative.
Col. Jitender Mehta, Lt. Col. TC Tayum, OSD, ADC Jairampur, DFO Jairampur, SDO Nampong, and other key district officials were also present, demonstrating a collaborative approach to this crucial project.
The CWGC delegates pledged to retrieve comprehensive data regarding the cemetery from their headquarters in Britain.
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Their commitment entails providing the necessary support for shaping the World War II Cemetery at Jairampur.
This visit by local authorities and the CWGC marks a pivotal moment in honouring the sacrifices of World War II soldiers and ensuring these invaluable sites are preserved for future generations.
