Shillong, June 22: The state government has identified an alternative route in view of the long time expected to be taken to restore the Shillong-Dawki road section that has collapsed in a landslide near Laitlyngkot, cutting off the road for vehicular traffic.
Deputy Chief Minister in-charge of PWD (Roads & Buildings) Prestone Tynsong, who inspected the damaged portion on Monday, said restoration of the road would take considerable time because of the extent of the damage.
However, he said, an alternative route has been identified through a by-lane passing near the stone quarry area of KL Lyngkhoi and connecting to Laitkynsew.
Construction of the alternative road will begin immediately once funds are made available, he said.
The PWD has been directed to prepare the required estimates, while the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) has been asked to expedite the process of securing funds.
Earlier, Tynsong inspected the damaged portion along with Sohra MLA Gavin Mylliem, East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal, Commissioner and Secretary of Revenue and Disaster Management Matsiewdor War Nongbri, PWD Secretary Bibat Syiem, East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem, officials of National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and representatives of the company executing the Shillong-Dawki road project.
The team assessed the damaged stretch below Laitlyngkot and later travelled via Umthli village to inspect the affected section from the opposite side.
Following the inspection, Tynsong chaired a review meeting at the Inspection Bungalow at Laitlyngkot to discuss immediate measures to address the situation.
Officials deliberated on temporarily restricting the movement of vehicles and pedestrians through the affected area due to the severe road collapse, falling rocks and landslides that have completely cut off the route.
