Meghalaya eyes two more NH projects

SHILLONG: Meghalaya is exploring the construction of two more national highways to improve road infrastructure and connectivity.
While the first project is Mawngap-Ranikor road passing through East and South West Khasi Hills, the other is the two-lane Nongstoin-Wahkaji road that will also connect Baghmara.
The work will be taken up within a few months by NHAI, Deputy Chief Minister in-charge PWD (Roads) Prestone Tynsong said recently.
“We had a meeting two and a half months ago with Union Minister for road transport and highways Nitin Gadkari and the Centre agreed in principle that Mawngap Mawphlang-Weiloi-Mawkyrwat (road) up to Ranikor should be double lane,” the minister said.
Another Strategic Road Development Plan (SRDP) project is from Nongstoin-Wahkaji road to be connected to Nongjri, Maheshkola and Baghmara, the headquarters of South Garo Hills, he informed.
According to Tynsong, the proposed widening and declaration of the road segments as national highways will herald economic boom for the state.
Hoping that the road project will start soon, the state government had sought NOC from the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council. Land acquisition will start after getting NOC from KHADC.
“NOC is being sought from the KHADC and once that is done, the Deputy Commissioner will be asked to survey the land,” Tynsong said.