Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Shillong: Meghalaya is set to receive a significant boost to its transport network following the announcement of six major highway projects worth Rs 3,214 crore. Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma unveiled the initiative on June 15 during the North East Infrastructure Summit and Exhibition in New Shillong, an event attended by Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari.
The package includes four new National Highway developments and the improvement of two existing road stretches. The new projects feature the 7.76 km Pynursla Bypass, the 31.5 km Dhubri-Phulbari Bridge-Selsella Road, the 31.7 km Selsella-Goeragre Road, and the 29 km Tura Bypass. Additionally, officials will oversee upgrades to the 10.67 km Shillong-Dawki Road and the 5.44 km Jowai Bypass. These developments are expected to strengthen inter-district connectivity and stimulate trade and tourism.
During the summit, Sangma highlighted the state's economic progress, noting that Meghalaya's Gross State Domestic Product has more than doubled to Rs 59,626 crore in the 2024-25 fiscal year. He credited the central government for significant support, citing that the state has benefited from Rs 50,400 crore in total highway investments. Reflecting on the region's trajectory, Sangma said the Northeast is witnessing a transformational phase after decades of challenges related to insurgency, law and order concerns, and political instability.
The state is also preparing for major milestones, including hosting the National Games and building the country's largest football stadium. With plans to accommodate larger commercial aircraft at the local airport, the government expects these infrastructure upgrades to accelerate regional integration and economic prosperity for the long term.
Comments