Meghalaya CM lays foundation stone for Rs 140-cr road project

MAWKYRWAT, AUG 17: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Monday laid the foundation stone for the upgradation of the Weiloi–Mawkyrwat–Rangthong road in South West Khasi Hills, a Rs. 140-crore project funded entirely from the State’s own resources.
Addressing a large gathering, Sangma underscored the transformative role of road infrastructure in unlocking growth across remote districts. “Every rupee we put into connectivity is not spent on tar and stone. It is invested in people, in how easily a mother can reach a hospital, how regularly a child can reach school, and how confidently a farmer can access markets,” he said.
Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, Tourism Minister Timothy D. Shira and several MLAs were present at the event. Sangma reiterated the government’s vision of balanced regional development, stressing that no district should be left behind.
He highlighted that historically underserved regions such as South West Khasi Hills, South Garo Hills and East Jaintia Hills are now central to the government’s development agenda.
Since 2018, projects worth over Rs. 850 crore have been implemented in South West Khasi Hills, with cumulative commitments nearing Rs. 990 crore. These include road infrastructure, drinking water schemes, educational institutions, healthcare facilities and tourism-related developments.
The CM informed that more than 3,200 kilometres of roads have been constructed across Meghalaya in the last eight years, averaging nearly one kilometre per day.
He described the upgraded road as a “growth corridor” that will connect villages and economic hubs, reduce travel time, and enhance access to essential services.
“This road will open up avenues of tourism, agriculture, trade, and education. Connectivity is the foundation upon which all development is built,” Sangma said, adding that the project is expected to boost tourism potential in South West Khasi Hills and strengthen market linkages for farmers and entrepreneurs.
Reiterating the government’s philosophy of decentralised development, Sangma emphasised that Meghalaya’s progress must extend beyond Shillong. “Our commitment is clear – development must reach every nook and corner of Meghalaya. South West Khasi Hills will not be an afterthought; it will be one of the engines of growth in our journey towards a stronger and more inclusive state,” he affirmed.