2D Mesh repair options - Requesting advice

I'm working in the new GUI (V2022.1) and would like to request advice for repairing mesh.

The model is attached, a 2D mesh is created as shown below: 

However, the mesh seems not properly connected. It disconnects when load applied as shown below: 

Tried the following to correct it: 

F3 > Remap (result: remap can only be done near line 11 (selection possibility))
Tried the following F3 > Associate (result: no effect)
Panels > Tools > 2D > check element connectivity (result: 0 elements found with questionable connectivity)
Panels > Tools > Normals > color display (result: all elements seem oriented in the same direction)

EDIT: Added hm file