Department of Information and Public Relations

Press Release No. 248/11

MEGHALAYA CM LAYS FOUNDATION STONE FOR ROAD CONSTRUCTION

Shillong, May 25, 2011: Meghalaya Chief Minister, Dr Mukul Sangma today laid the foundation stone of the upgradation and improvement of the Mairang-Rani Godown-Azra road at Mairang, West Khasi Hills District in the presence of the Minister of PWD (Roads), Mr H D R Lyngdoh, Parliamentary Secretaries, Mr Francis Pondit Sangma and Mr Limison Sangma and also Mr Metbah Lyngdoh, local MLA who also presided over the function.

It may be mentioned that the Road project from Mairang-Ranigodown-Azra with a distance of 81.50 Kms estimated at Rs. 100 Crores has been sanctioned by the Ministry of DONER as a Special Plan Assistance to the State Government. The double lane road is meant for providing better road connectivity between Shillong and parts of West Khasi .Hills District especially in connecting with parts of the State with Assam. The scheduled time for completion of the project is 3 years.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Mukul Sangma said that the laying of foundation stone of the road project is a historic moment where the people will be able to be connected with other part of the State and also Assam. He said that the road will also serve as an alternative route for the people and it will also ease the traffic congestion in the State Capital, Shillong

While appreciating that West Khasi Hills District is one of the most deprived and backward districts of the State, Dr Mukul stated that the Government is committed to ensuring that development reaches to every nook and corner of the State. He said that concerted efforts have to be made so that the rural areas are made more attractive in terms of opportunities so that the migration of rural people to the urban areas is minimized.

Dr Mukul Sangma stated that the State Government is working hard to see that the State is well connected by roads so that it will help the economic development of the State. He said that when the road it completed, it will help the farmers especially the floriculture farmers to market their goods directly through the LGB Airport, of Asssam.

Among others who were present on the occasion were the Deputy Commissioner, West Khasi Hills District, Mr S Kharlyngdoh and Secretary PWD (Rds), Mr P S G Lyngdoh.