The decks are clear for construction of the long awaited Shillong Western Bypass which to a certain extent will help reduce traffic congestion in Shillong.
The Central government through the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has sanctioned Rs 2205 crore for the Shillong-Western Bypass project with a total length of 38km.
The sanction was based on the detailed project report (DPR) submitted by the State government to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
The State government has finalised the alignment for the Shillong Western Bypass.
Shillong-Western Bypass would start from Umiam via Mawmih to Baniun near Hynniew Mer in Upper Shillong.
Land acquisition proceedings for the road project have also started in the two districts of Ri Bhoi and East Khasi Hills.
The amount of land compensation will be paid from the amount sanctioned by the Centre.
The sanctioning of Shillong Western Bypass was announced by Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari on November 11.
The project is part of upcoming new sanctioned road projects for Meghalaya at the total cost of Rs 12,500 crore.
Meanwhile, the Mawlyngkhung-Mawryngkneng (Shillong Eastern Bypass) has also been sanctioned by the Ministry at a total cost of Rs 4100 crore.
The road project will connect Mawryngkneng with West Jaintia Hills and Jowai By-Pass with a total length of 75km. When completed, the road would enhance better regional connectivity and decongest traffic.
Moreover, two new road projects in Garo Hills have also been sanctioned by the Ministry.
Dainadubi-Darugre-Williamnagar road project with a total length of 80km was sanctioned at a total cost of Rs 4350 crore. It will boost inter-state connectivity between Assam and Meghalaya. It is a major route for coal transporters from all parts of Garo Hills.
Paikan-Tura road project with a total length of 56km was sanctioned at a total cost of Rs 1827 crore. According to the Ministry, the road project would further Prime Minister Narendra Modi vision of Act East Policy.
