Shillong, Feb 6: Speaker of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, Thomas A. Sangma, has said safety is paramount before occupying any structure and stated that his decision to delay the move to the new Assembly building was to ensure all safety parameters are in place given the collapse of the earlier under-construction dome.
“I don’t want to hurry this process. As Speaker, my duty is to ensure everyone’s safety. We’ve had safety issues in the past, so this time, we’re being extra careful. It’s better to delay than risk any problems,” said Sangma to presspersons on the sidelines of a high-powered committee (HPC) meeting in Shillong.
He also expressed confidence that this year’s autumn session of the Assembly is likely to be held in the new Assembly. “If not the next session, then definitely the autumn session will take place in the new premises,” he assured.
The construction is over 90% complete. The dome and main hall are being covered now and will be finished in a few days. After that, interior work will begin,” Sangma explained.
When asked about safety, Sangma admitted he’s not a technical expert but shared that the dome’s weight has been significantly reduced—from 3,000 tons to 300 metric tons. “We’re making it lighter without compromising strength,” he said.
Safety checks are ongoing, with experts from the Project Management Consultant (PMC), technical advisors, and the Public Works Department (PWD) closely monitoring the work, assured the Meghalaya speaker.
On the delay in taking action against those responsible for the dome collapse, Sangma said, “I can’t comment directly, but the HPC will address the issue when it comes up.”
The HPC is expected to meet again before the budget session, which starts on February 28.
