Shillong, August 17: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma laid the foundation stone for the ₹140 crore upgrade of the Veloi-Mawkirwat-Rangthong road in the southwest Khasi Hills on Monday. He described this initiative as a vital growth corridor with the potential to enhance access to tourism, agriculture, trade, and essential services.
This project is fully funded by the state government’s resources, aiming to strengthen connectivity in Meghalaya’s remote districts and promote balanced regional development.
Addressing a gathering in Mawkirwat, Sangma emphasized that improved road infrastructure signifies more than just physical connectivity; it also creates better opportunities and enhances the quality of life.
He stated that better roads will facilitate easier access to healthcare, education, and markets, while also reducing travel time and costs.
“Our vision has always been clear: no area or district should be left behind. Development should reach every village, starting from the most remote corners,” Sangma remarked.
He highlighted that since 2018, over ₹850 crore worth of projects have been implemented in the South West Khasi Hills, with total commitments now reaching approximately ₹990 crore, encompassing roads, drinking water, education, healthcare, and tourism.
In the past eight years, more than 3,200 kilometers of roads have been constructed across Meghalaya, averaging nearly one kilometer per day.
Sangma noted that the upgraded Veloi-Mawkirwat-Rangthong road will strengthen connectivity between communities and significantly boost local economic activities.
The improved road network is expected to facilitate the movement of agricultural products, enhance access to markets, and create new opportunities for farmers, entrepreneurs, and tourism-related businesses.
“Meghalaya is not just limited to Shillong. It is our responsibility to ensure that every district and every village receives equal attention and opportunity,” he added.
The event was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Preston Tinsong, Tourism Minister Timothy D. Shira, and several legislators including Renikton Lingdoh, Piyush Marwaha, Olan Singh Suin, and Celestine Lingdoh.
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