From Our Correspondent
NONGPOH, May 26: The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) North Khasi Hills District unit on Tuesday welcomed the progress of several long-pending infrastructure projects along National Highway-6 in Ri-Bhoi.
A KSU delegation met with Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal to review the status of demands including the construction of foot overbridges (FOBs), road repairs, and the installation of streetlights. The union noted that these safety measures had remained unresolved for several years.
KSU district president Ferdynald Kharkamni told media persons that the construction of foot overbridges is gaining momentum at key locations, including Nongpoh, Umsning, Byrnihat, Arphewmer, and Mawlein-Mawkhan. He also confirmed that streetlight installation has commenced in Nongpoh town, with the remaining sections expected to be completed soon.
“Owing to the proactive approach of the Deputy Commissioner, these projects are finally moving forward,” Kharkamni said. He added that the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has repaired most of the damaged stretches along the highway, providing relief to commuters.
The union further suggested that the NHAI should bear the electricity costs for the new streetlights while the highway remains under its jurisdiction. According to Kharkamni, approximately 40 per cent of the union’s infrastructure demands have been fulfilled.
As a gesture of appreciation, the union—led by Kharkamni and District Secretary James Hitler Mawphniang—felicitated Baranwal with a traditional Ryndia muffler and a memento. The delegation also extended its best wishes to the Deputy Commissioner as he prepares to take charge of the East Khasi Hills district.
