By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, July 10: The Meghalaya government is planning a development project worth Rs 39-49 crore along the Wah Umkhrah riverfront to transform it into a key tourist destination.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma announced on Thursday that work for development of the riverfront has already been sanctioned and construction is currently under way.
The project also includes upgrading the sports complex area at Polo and development of new infrastructure on adjacent land, he said.
“We are in an advanced stage of discussions with shopkeepers to enhance and beautify the surrounding areas. For the first time, we are taking up such a transformative initiative for Shillong—something that hasn’t been done before,” he stated.
Sangma acknowledges that Shillong has largely remained unchanged over the years, but is beginning to shift with several major initiatives taking shape in the New Shillong Township area.
The NST will be a crucial part of the city’s future, housing key institutions such as the State Assembly, NIFT, IIM, and an administrative city, the chief minister said.
Reflecting on his working relationship with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who was also present on the occasion, Sangma expressed gratitude for her consistent support, not just for Meghalaya but for the entire Northeast region.
“She has always shown deep affection and concern for the people of the Northeast. Every time we approached her with requests for special assistance, she has been responsive and generous,” he added.
He also highlighted the Ministry of Finance’s flagship initiative—the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SACIS), commonly known as the SAS scheme. He noted that the scheme is primarily aimed at supporting infrastructure development across the country.
Meghalaya has received the highest level of funding under Sitharaman’s leadership, Sangma said.
“These funds have allowed us to build crucial road networks, major infrastructure, and iconic projects that are transforming our state’s landscape,” he added.