Shillong, Sep 24: Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong today held a detailed review meeting with officials of the Public Works Department (PWD, which he heads), the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corp Ltd (NHIDCL), Revenue Department and Deputy Commissioners, focusing on the progress of major road infrastructure projects across Meghalaya.
Highlighting the Greenfield High-Speed Corridor, Tynsong said the 166.80km stretch from Umiam to near Panchgram, bordering Assam, is progressing well. “The survey in Ri Bhoi, Khasi Hills, and West Jaintia Hills is more or less completed. In East Jaintia Hills, the process has been delayed due to challenging terrain and weather, but we are confident that the survey will be completed by the end of this year,” he stated.
Calling it one of the largest sanctioned projects in the North East, Tynsong informed that the project cost stands at Rs 22,864 crore. “This is a national project, and we are committed to ensuring its timely implementation,” he added.
On the Tura Bypass, the Deputy CM said the process is now at the stage of landowner identification for compensation. “Everything is on track. By the end of this year, land compensation will be disbursed and, once completed, land will be handed over to NHIDCL to begin construction,” he assured. The Tura Bypass covers around 30km.
Providing updates on the Shillong-Dawki Road Project, Tynsong said progress has picked up despite initial inconveniences caused by the construction of the four-lane highway. After reviewing with construction firms, the government has directed them to complete Package 1 by December 2025, while Package 2 has a deadline of December 2026. Packages 4 and 5 are also expected to meet their respective targets.
Regarding the Western Bypass, Tynsong acknowledged pending land disputes but said directions have been given to the DCs of Nongpoh and Shillong to resolve them quickly. “The progress of work is satisfactory, and we are hopeful of completing the Western Bypass by 2026,” he said.
Reiterating the government’s commitment, Tynsong concluded, “These projects are crucial for connectivity, economic growth, and reducing travel time. Despite challenges, we are confident of meeting the deadlines with support from NHIDCL and the district administrations.”
