SHILLONG, June 10: The Meghalaya Commercial Truck Owners and Drivers Association (MCTO&DA), Jaintia Hills Unit, has raised concerns over the higher retail price of cement in Meghalaya compared to neighbouring Assam.
Speaking to reporters after a meeting with Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar, MCTO&DA Jaintia Hills Unit member Smen Kyndait stated that the association had informed the state government that cement companies operating in Meghalaya — particularly those exploiting the limestone reserves of East Jaintia Hills — are charging higher retail prices for cement within the state than in Assam.
Kyndait said the Deputy CM assured them that he would take up the issue with the concerned cement companies to determine why prices are significantly higher in Meghalaya.
He further called for an official inquiry into the price disparity, pointing out that consumers in areas such as Shillong and Jowai are paying more per bag of cement — be it Topcem, Star Cement, or other brands — compared to consumers in Assam. The association also urged the government to take strict action against cement companies if they fail to reduce retail prices.
It may be noted that these cement companies are already availing benefits under the North East Industrial & Investment Promotion Policy.
