Shillong: Activists and local leaders are demanding the immediate restoration of the Shillong-Dawki National Highway near Laitlyngkot. The road collapsed on June 21, leaving the region isolated for nearly a month. Protesters are now calling for Pynursla MLA and Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong to return from his trip to the United States. They want him to coordinate the urgent repair work.
Leaders from the KSU South Central East Circle and the FKJGP Ri-War Mihngi Circle held a press conference in Pynursla to air their grievances. They blame the state government, NHIDCL, and the hired contractor for the dangerous delays. The groups claim nine people have died in accidents since the highway expansion project began. These activists point to a lack of technical oversight at the site.
The organizations plan to start voluntary repairs on a five-metre stretch of road on July 23. They invite taxi drivers and local residents to assist with the labor. During the press conference, the groups demanded accountability for Tynsong’s absence. They stated, “But if our MLA has gone to watch the World Cup in the United States or has gone anywhere else, he should immediately return and ensure that the road is repaired at the earliest.”
The Federation of Ri-War Mihngi Local Dorbars joined the criticism. Hima Khyrim minister Wonderful Nongrum blamed the collapse on indiscriminate blasting and poor drainage. He argued the failure was not a natural disaster. Meanwhile, local trade, healthcare, and education have stalled. The current diversion through land owned by Bah Khrikshon Lyngkhoi cannot handle heavy vehicles. Federation president Joy James Roy Khongmawloh and Sirdar Jelius Majaw are still weighing their options for the July 23 work. They warn that further delays will trigger intense protests across the region.
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