Shillong: The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has pledged its support for three major highway projects in Meghalaya, aiming to transform regional connectivity and spark economic growth across Northeast India. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari recently announced the initiative, which includes a combined investment of Rs 1,592 crore under the Northeast Road Network Connectivity Improvement Programme.
The funded corridors consist of the Dhubri-Phulbari Bridge to Selsella-Simbukolgre stretch, the Selsella-Simbukolgre to Goeragre route on NH-127B, and the critical Shillong-Dawki Road project. These developments are designed to strengthen trade ties with Bangladesh while improving access to Assam and West Bengal.
JICA India chief representative Takeuchi Takuro emphasized the broader impact of the infrastructure upgrades. "These highway projects will not only enhance regional connectivity and facilitate trade, but more importantly, they will create new opportunities for jobs, businesses and improved livelihoods for local communities," Takuro said.
The agency expects the projects to lower travel times and vehicle operating costs while enhancing overall road safety. The Shillong-Dawki corridor will undergo significant improvements, including the widening of the Rilbong Junction-Pomlum stretch to four lanes. These upgrades are also intended to ease traffic congestion in the Upper Shillong area and promote tourism throughout the region.
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