Meghalaya is set to receive a major infrastructure boost with the launch of six highway projects worth Rs 3,214 crore, a move expected to improve connectivity, strengthen trade links and support economic growth across the state.The projects will be formally launched on Monday during the North East Infrastructure Summit in New Shillong. Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, will attend the programme and lay the foundation for the projects, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma announced.The infrastructure package includes four new National Highway projects and the upgradation of two existing highway stretches. State government officials said the projects are aimed at improving transportation networks, reducing travel time and enhancing connectivity between districts as well as neighbouring states.
Among the new projects, the Tura Bypass on National Highway-217 is the largest, with an estimated cost of Rs 951 crore. The 29-kilometre project is expected to ease traffic congestion in and around Tura and improve movement across western Meghalaya.Other new projects include the 7.76-kilometre Pynursla Bypass on NH-206, estimated at Rs 564 crore; the 31.5-kilometre Dhubri-Phulbari Bridge-Selsella Road on NH-127B, costing Rs 737 crore; and the 31.7-kilometre Selsella-Goeragre Road on NH-206, with an investment of Rs 504 crore.In addition to the new highway works, two important road stretches will undergo upgradation. The Shillong-Dawki Road project, covering 10.67 kilometres, has been sanctioned at Rs 351 crore, while the 5.44-kilometre Jowai Bypass project will be upgraded at a cost of Rs 106 crore.
Chief Minister Sangma said the projects would significantly strengthen the state’s road infrastructure and contribute to Meghalaya’s long-term development goals. He noted that improved highways would support faster transportation, facilitate commerce and create opportunities for growth in tourism and related sectors.