By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Jan 2: Meghalaya is poised to witness the culmination of several pivotal infrastructure projects in 2025.
These initiatives span urban planning, transportation, public utilities, and sports infrastructure, collectively aiming to enhance the quality of life and economic prospects for its residents.
The Shillong Smart City project, hindered by delays, has gained renewed momentum following the Centre’s extension of the Smart Cities Mission deadline to March 2025. This extension facilitates the completion of critical components, including retrofitting and upgrading of multilevel parking facilities, and the redevelopment of Laitumkhrah Market.
Additionally, a commercial complex in Polo and a new Rs 217.3 crore integrated solid waste management facility in the East Khasi Hills are slated for completion within this time frame.
The state government is on its course to institutionalise Shillong Medical College by 2025-26.
Significant advancements in transportation infrastructure are on the horizon, officials said. The Shillong-Dawki four-lane highway project, essential for bolstering connectivity within Meghalaya and to neighbouring regions, is progressing steadily.
The first phase, covering 11.6 km from Rilbong to Mylliem Marbaniang, is targeted for completion by October 2025. Concurrently, the Rs 90-crore renovation of NH-6, a vital artery for the state’s commerce and mobility, is expected to conclude by March 2025.
Under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), Meghalaya is striving to ensure a functional tap water supply to every household. The programme’s March 2025 deadline represents a significant step toward resolving the state’s persistent water challenges.
The construction of the new Meghalaya Legislative Assembly building, long beset by delays, is anticipated to be completed before the Autumn Session of 2025.
In preparation for hosting the National Games, the Meghalaya government is expediting the development of sports infrastructure. Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma indicated that the majority of these projects are slated for completion by 2025-2026, ensuring the state is well-prepared for the prestigious event.
The Tetelia-Byrnihat railway line, aimed at enhancing connectivity between Assam and Meghalaya, is another significant project. While the 10-km Tetelia-Kamalajari section in Assam has been completed, progress in Meghalaya has been impeded by local opposition and the need for further approvals. The project’s completion is anticipated to bolster economic growth and improve accessibility in the region.
The commencement of scientific mining is anticipated this year, promising a regulated approach that balances economic development with environmental safeguards. This initiative is expected to rejuvenate Meghalaya’s mining sector, which has been in a state of uncertainty for years.
Similarly, several ambitious initiatives, such as the Shillong Ropeway Project, the Wahumkhrah Beautification Project, the Barik beautification, the beautification of Ward’s Lake, the construction of a skywalk, and flyovers, are set to begin in 2025.