Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, who also holds charge of the Public Works Department (Roads) today informed that the government is in the process of upgrading National Highway 6 from Mawryngkneng in East Khasi Hills to Malidor in East Jaintia Hills.
He said that the feasibility report has been completed and the detailed project report (DPR) preparation is underway.
Santa Mary Shylla, the Sutnga Saipung MLA, stressed that the road is the lifeline of many North East states and making it a four-lane route needs to be expedited.
Tynsong then replied to a further question by Mowkaiaw MLA Nujorki Sungoh, explaining that land compensation has been paid for the double lane but for the widening to four lanes. Once this is done, the District Collector will hand over the land to the implementing company.
Sungoh stressed on the importance of speeding up the widening of this highway since traffic jams are a frequent occurrence that sometimes last for hours.
The minister replied that the four-lane section of the highway will begin in Umroi and run up to Ratacherra as this has been termed as an economic corridor by the central government and has been accorded priority status. Tendering for this work will begin shortly, he added.
Tynsong also said that a work order has been issued for the deplorable stretch of the Jowai Bypass that needs repairs. Sanction of approximately Rs 11 crore has been made and the contractor has been directed to start work immediately.
