Khliehriat, May 28: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Thursday laid the foundation stones for four major road infrastructure projects worth nearly ₹488 crore in East and West Jaintia Hills, in a significant push to improve regional connectivity, tourism access and economic activity in the coal-bearing region.
The projects, covering a combined length of over 108 km, include a ₹355-crore World Bank-funded road upgradation project under the Meghalaya Logistics & Connectivity Improvement Project (MLCIP), aimed at improving the Dkhiah–Sutnga–Saipung–Pala–Semmasi corridor in East Jaintia Hills.
Sangma laid the foundation stones at Latyrke Playground and Lumshyrmit village in the presence of Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar, local MLAs Santa Mary Shylla and Kyrmen Shylla, and senior officials.
Besides the flagship World Bank-backed project, the other works include strengthening of the Dkhiah–Sutnga–Saipung–Moulsei–Haflong road, improvement of roads leading to Chympe Waterfalls and Khaddum, and construction of the Shkemtalang–Lumshyrmit road with a major bridge over the Myntdu River connecting NH-6.
Addressing the gathering, 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.
