Shillong, aug 6: A delegation from South West Khasi Hills has urged Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma to speed up the sanctioning process for construction of an intermediate lane, citing the pressing need for improved infrastructure in the area.
The chief minister met the delegation of Sur Paidbah on Wednesday where they discussed the Weiloi-Mawkyrwat-Khatphra (Ranikor) road project.
The delegation had previously submitted a memorandum on the matter to the Deputy Chief Minister in-charge PWD (Roads) Prestone Tynsong on July 2, 2024.
The road is considered strategically important for national security and economically vital for the region.
“(We) have urged the Chief Minister to speed up the sanctioning process for the project, citing the need for improved infrastructure in the area,” chairman of the Sur Paidbah Kitborlang Nongrem told reporters after the meeting.
The organisation expressed hopes that the government will take prompt action to sanction the project and facilitate the construction of the road, which would benefit the local community and enhance the region’s connectivity.
The UDP legislators from Mawkyrwat and Ranikor constituencies, who were also part of the delegation, have expressed optimism about the government’s plans to develop key road infrastructure in the West Khasi Hills district.
Renikton Lyngdoh Tongkhar, UDP legislator from Mawkyrwat, confirmed that the construction of the Weiloi-Keniong road, sanctioned under the World Bank, is set to be extended to Ranikor.
The government plans to start the first phase of construction from Weiloi to Keniong, with the extension to Ranikor in the second phase, he told reporters.
According to him, this road will connect Khasi Hills with South Garo Hills district, benefiting border villages.
Lyngdoh informed that the delegation had also proposed construction of several roads from Rangdkhiew-Marngor, Jashier-Kynshi, and Pyndendiwah-Shyrwan Highways.
“The Chief Minister has acknowledged the importance of these roads in promoting economic development in the three districts of West Khasi Hills,” he said while adding that the government is open to exploring various funding sources for these projects.
Ranikor legislator Pius Marwein said that they are waiting for the government to float the tender to commence road construction soon.
He said that proposals for roads connecting Mawsynram to Ranikor and Wahkaji to Ranikor are being pursued, with the government having taken up the matter with the Centre.
According to him, the development of these roads is expected to significantly enhance connectivity and economic opportunities in the Khasi Hills region.
