The Agia-Medhipara-Phulbari-Tura (AMPT) Road has been included in the Meghalaya Integrated Transport Project (MITP) and could even one day be upgraded into a National Highway.
In the Assembly today, Rajabala MLA Mizanur Rahman Kazi expressed his frustration over the deplorable condition of the road, decrying what he described as the “step-motherly” treatment of the state government towards this crucial roadway.
In response to the opposition legislator, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma and Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, who is in charge of the Public Works Department (PWD) elucidated on the plans to better the road.
Sangma revealed that a portion of the AMPT Road had been included in the MITP, which is part of a World Bank initiative aimed at improving transportation infrastructure.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to the region, the CM pointed out that the AMPT is the only one in Garo Hills that has been chosen for improvement under the MITP.
Meanwhile, Tynsong disclosed the government’s ambitious plan to upgrade the AMPT to a National Highway, subject to approval by the Centre.
The road is crucial in connecting up the western parts of Garo Hills as well as the region to Assam.
Work has nearly been completed on a 32km stretch and ongoing projects under the North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme (NESIDS) aim to further improve the road, potentially covering a 60-70km once completed.
“The government understands the importance of this road and we are committed to taking it up to the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways,” Tynsong stated.
