SHILLONG, May 29: Six young MLA of Meghalaya — Shakliar Warjri, Santa Mary Shylla, Damanbait Lamare, Charles Marngar, Ian Botham Sangma, and Gabriel Wahlang — on Monday engaged in a thoughtful dialogue with German MP Florian Müller, who is on a five-day visit to the state, on recognising the need for improved transport and digital connectivity infrastructure in Meghalaya.
The MLAs’ discussions with the German MP aimed at bringing about development in transport and digital connectivity within the state.
The MLAs had a productive discussion on the topics of ‘Digital Connectivity’ and ‘Transport in India,’ specifically focusing on the state of Meghalaya, with Müller, and Dr Adrian Haack, Resident Representative to India of the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiffung, New Delhi.
Müller highlighted the interdependence between transport infrastructure and digital connectivity, emphasising that they rely on each other for effective operation. He mentioned that the development of modern transport infrastructure has facilitated faster and more efficient movement of goods and people globally.
The German MP emphasised that robust digital connectivity is essential to ensure the smooth functioning of all aspects of transport infrastructure, including transportation management systems, traffic monitoring and control, and communication between drivers and passengers.
During the interactive session, the Meghalaya MLAs expressed their concerns about the inadequate transportation infrastructure within the state. Despite being more than 50 years since attaining statehood, many villages in Meghalaya still lack proper road connectivity.
Meanwhile, Sports & Youth Affairs Minister Shakliar Warjri acknowledged the significant improvement in road infrastructure within the state over the past five years. He emphasised that it is crucial for the Meghalaya government to continue investing in these areas to ensure continuous growth and development.
The German MP also visited the under-construction Assembly building and other projects in New Shillong Township area.
He also witnessed a presentation showing how the Assembly building would look like after it is completed. Later, the MP along with state government officials took a quick tour of the right wing of the Assembly building.
Later, Müller also visited the state-of-the-art Shillong International Centre for Performing Arts and Culture (SICPAC) building and was impressed with the project of the state government, which was constructed at an estimated cost of over Rs 151.33 crore.
