Shillong, May 28: In a major push to infrastructure development in Meghalaya, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Thursday laid foundation stones for four road projects worth Rs 488 crore and combined length of over 108 km in East and West Jaintia Hills districts.
The road projects are expected to significantly improve regional connectivity, tourism access and economic activity in the coal-bearing region.
The upcoming projects include a Rs 355-crore World Bank-funded road upgradation project under Meghalaya Logistics & Connectivity Improvement Project (MLCIP), aimed at improving the Dkhiah–Sutnga–Saipung–Pala–Semmasi corridor in East Jaintia Hills.
The other works include strengthening of Dkhiah–Sutnga–Saipung–Moulsei–Haflong road, improvement of roads leading to Chympe Waterfalls and Khaddum, and construction of Shkemtalang–Lumshyrmit road with a major bridge over Myntdu river connecting NH-6.
Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar and local MLAs Santa Mary Shylla and Kyrmen Shylla were present at the foundation stone laying programmes at Latyrke playground and Lumshyrmit village.
In his address, the Chief Minister said the projects would transform connectivity in the region, improve access to healthcare and education, and generate long-term economic opportunities through tourism and trade.
He announced that tenders for the major road projects have already been floated and construction work is expected to begin within 45 days.
Sangma also hinted at more large-scale infrastructure and connectivity projects for the region, while stressing the need for community participation and phased development.
Highlighting Meghalaya’s economic trajectory, the Chief Minister said the state is among the “fastest-growing economies” and asserted that development initiatives are being implemented across all regions of the state.
On the sensitive issue of coal mining, which is important to the livelihoods in the region, Sangma said the government is continuing negotiations with the Centre to facilitate scientific and sustainable mining practices while balancing environmental concerns and the interests of small miners.
“The government has been working persistently to lift the coal mining ban and implement scientific mining practices,” he said.
The Chief Minister also announced government support for the construction of an indoor stadium at Latyrke village following requests from local residents. At Lumshyrmit, he said the new road and bridge project would open up opportunities in tourism, agriculture and access to essential services.
