Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma today said that the transformative role of road infrastructure in unlocking growth across remote districts, as he laid the foundation stone for the upgradation of the Weiloi–Mawkyrwat–Rangthong road in South West Khasi Hills.
The ₹140 crore project, funded entirely from the State’s own resources, is a milestone in the government’s effort to expand connectivity and ensure that development reaches beyond Shillong into the farthest corners of the state.
Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, Tourism Minister Timothy D Shira, MLAs Renikton Lyngdoh, Piyush Marwein, Olan Singh Suin and Dr Celestine Lyngdoh also attended the programme.
Addressing a large gathering, the Chief Minister emphasised that infrastructure investments are ultimately investments in people. “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.
Highlighting the government’s focus on balanced regional development, he reiterated that Meghalaya’s growth story must include its most remote districts. “Our vision has always been clear — no area, no district should be left behind. Development must begin from the most remote corners and reach every village,” he stated.
The Chief Minister noted that historically underserved districts such as South West Khasi Hills, South Garo Hills, and East Jaintia Hills are now at the centre of the government’s development agenda. “What were once considered remote and neglected regions are today becoming growth centres. Our approach is to ensure that development starts from these areas,” he added.
Placing the project in context, the Chief Minister informed that since 2018, over ₹850 crore worth of projects have been implemented in South West Khasi Hills, with the cumulative commitment now reaching nearly ₹990 crore.
These include road infrastructure, drinking water supply schemes, education institutions, healthcare facilities, and tourism-related developments, reflecting a comprehensive and integrated approach to district development.
He further highlighted that more than 3,200 kilometres of roads have been constructed across Meghalaya in the last eight years — averaging nearly one kilometre per day — marking an unprecedented push in connectivity.
Describing the road as a “growth corridor, not just a project,” the Chief Minister said the upgraded stretch will connect multiple villages and economic hubs, reducing travel time and transport costs while enhancing access to essential services.