By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, May 21: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Wednesday highlighted the remarkable progress in Meghalaya’s infrastructure development, revealing that over Rs 4,000 crore has been sanctioned for road projects in the past seven years alone.
In contrast, he noted that only Rs 659 crore worth of roadwork was approved between 1991 and 2018.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Hubert Rosario Road at Spein, Mookaswan in West Jaintia Hills, Sangma stated that nearly 70% of all roads under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) in the state have been completed during his tenure.
“The true value of any development project lies not in its cost, but in the lives it impacts,” he said, adding that while the Hubert Rosario Road is a Rs 1.93 crore project on paper, it is invaluable for the comfort it brings to those in need, including patients and caregivers at the nearby acupressure centre.
The 1.13-kilometre road serves as a key access route to the Hubert Acupressure Centre, a healthcare facility that plays a vital role in serving the local community.
Sangma also emphasized the state’s commitment to healthcare, stating that over 8% of Meghalaya’s annual budget—more than Rs 1,000 crore — is now allocated to the health sector. He noted that the government is supporting not only state-run hospitals but also partnering with church-run and non-profit institutions.
He announced that rural health centres like the Hubert Acupressure Centre would be included in the next phase of infrastructure funding. The Chief Minister also shared plans to promote traditional healing practices by integrating indigenous knowledge with modern healthcare services.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar, who also addressed the gathering, praised the unity and dedication of the local community. He expressed pride in his connection with Mookaswan and commended the efforts of the sisters running the healthcare centre.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Archbishop Victor Lyngdoh of the Shillong Diocese, Bishop Ferdinand Dkhar of the Jowai Diocese, Jowai MLA Wailadmiki Shylla, Public Works Department officials, and members of the local administration.