Shillong, Sep 7: Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan laid the base for five major infrastructure projects worth Rs 1,010 crore during his visit to the state on Monday.
This is his first official visit to Meghalaya as the Vice-President. He was welcomed on landing at Umroi Airport by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong and others and also accorded a civic reception at the U Soso Tham Auditorium.
The largest of the five projects is the New Shillong Water Supply Scheme Phase 2 at Rs 850.58 crore, the construction of a 110 metre major bridge over the Umngot River on the Jongksha–Kharang–Dienglieng–Nongjrong–Moodymmai–Wahiajer road at a cost of Rs 21.86 crore under NESIDS, a 13.50km road from Umsen to Barapathar via Pilangku-A, Jyrmang, Chibra and Mawiong costing Rs 56.01 crore under NESIDS, a 30-bed AYUSH facility at Shillong Civil Hospital costing Rs 10 crore, funded by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and an electrical substation at Mawkhanu costing Rs 72.50 crore under PM-DevINE to ensure stable power supply for New Shillong City.
Speaking on the occasion, the Vice-President said he was with the people of the state for the development of Meghalaya. He also paid tribute to the Khasi poet U Soso Tham stating that the bard continues to inspire generations.
He also admired the state’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, adding that he was impressed by its grassroots institution and its democratic traditions.
The VP said for the aim to make India developed by 2047, every state should progress and it should be inclusive. Appreciating the state as one of the fastest growing economies of the country, Radhakrishnan praised the various initiatives taken by the state government.
Meanwhile, Sangma, who also spoke on the occasion, stated that Meghalaya is a young state and through its journey there have been challenges but the greatest strength is its community, traditions and culture.
