SHILLONG, June 9: Cabinet Minister and Amlarem MLA Lahkmen Rymbui on Tuesday admitted that ongoing construction of the Shillong-Tamabil (Shillong-Dawki) road has disrupted tourism and local livelihoods in Dawki, Mawlynnong, and surrounding areas.
Speaking to reporters, Rymbui stated that Meghalaya’s tourism potential depends on robust infrastructure, including road connectivity and telecommunications.
While thanking the Union government for funding the project, he acknowledged the temporary hardships faced by residents but maintained that the road would ultimately benefit the region. “Tourist inflow and local livelihoods have been affected, but we must be patient,” Rymbui said. He noted that work is progressing and expressed hope that executing agencies would complete the project soon. Addressing safety concerns, the MLA pointed out that the terrain is prone to landslides, especially during the monsoon. Following reports of fatalities during construction, Rymbui stressed that authorities must ensure all necessary safety measures are in place while work is expedited.
On the issue of Shillong’s chronic traffic congestion, Rymbui described it as a common challenge for hill stations that is difficult to eliminate entirely. He said the government is pursuing several projects to ease the bottleneck, including the Shillong Western Bypass, proposed flyovers connecting Polo to New Shillong, and improved links between the Jowai-Shillong road and the New Shillong Township.
Rymbui identified land acquisition as a major hurdle to road expansion within the city. He argued that the development of the New Shillong Township is a key long-term solution to reducing urban density.
“Ring roads and bypasses are part of the solution, but public cooperation and a sense of responsibility among citizens are equally important,” he added.
