Shillong, Feb 13:Allegedly shoddy implementation of the MPLADS (MP Local Area Development Scheme) in Ri-Bhoi has caught the attention of authorities.
This issue came to light when residents of Umsning raised the issue of substandard work executed in the repairing of a cement footpath, which was funded under the scheme at a cost of Rs 4 lakh.
The Block Development Officer (BDO) of Umsning, Andrew Myrthong, informed that the work order was issued in 2025 to the chairman of Umsning Town Dorbar, Rocky Kylla.
Myrthong informed that the first installment of Rs 2 lakh was released and the second installment will be released only after the completion of the work.
“The implementation of work is still under progress and the authorities at the block level are yet to do the final inspection. We are also yet to receive the completion report. We are treating it as work under progress,” the BDO said.
He said that while the work is still under progress, it has come to the notice of the authorities the complaints raised by residents in social media on the poor implementation of the scheme.
Myrthong said that the Shillong MP Ricky Syngkon had also personally spoken to him on the matter and the BDO has taken cognizance.
“I called up Rocky Kylla on the complaints raised by the public and told him that this issue has brought bad reputation to him and also to the MP who had recommended the scheme,” he added.
He urged all concerned to implement the schemes honestly as per rules and regulations under MPLADS.
The BDO said that he had sent his officer to inspect the implementation of the work and it was found out that certain parts of the footpath had been damaged.
“We have asked the individual concerned to take up necessary measures by repairing as per the specifications recommended by the block office and he can’t compromise on the quality of work,” Myrthong added.
The BDO said that if the quality of work is compromised, the second installment will not be released.
Kylla is also implementing two other MPLADS projects in Umsning – the renovation of the Umsning Town Dorbar Hall and construction of a footpath leading to the dump yard in Umsning Patarim.
