Double-laning of Langkyrdem – Dawki road
By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: The much-awaited double-laning work on NH 40 stretch from Langkyrdem – Dawki (till bridge) is expected to be completed by March next year.
Indicating this, PSG Lyngdoh, Commissioner and Secretary, PWD on Monday told The Shillong Times that sixty per cent work of the project would be completed by March this year.
The work on NH 40 stretch from Langkyrdem – Dawki began way back in October-November, 2010.
The initial estimated cost of the 23-kilometer road project was Rs 43 crore, which was later revised to Rs 53 crore, he said adding that the project was approved by Ministry of Road, Transport and Highway.
Reacting to a query on land acquisition hurdles which is a trademark developmental glitch of the State, the official admitted that a few problems were there with the land owners.
“But negotiations are to find out solutions to those issues,” he said.
Regarding Dawki bridge, the official said the PWD had already floated tender for double-laning of 165-metre-long British era bridge.
Earlier, a local contractor along with a firm had shown interest to double lane the bride, he said adding “The firm quoted a huge amount for the work. The ministry did not approve it and asked for re-tendering.”
According to Lyngdoh, the Ministry of Road, Transport and Highway has sanctioned Rs 23 crore for double-laning of the bridge, but the problem lies in getting a firm or a contractor to do the job.
“Our contractors do not have the expertise nor the machineries so we have floated the tender and if we get a good response we would soon allocate the work,” he added.