SHILLONG, Jan 21: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Tuesday reaffirmed the government’s commitment to inclusive and balanced development across all regions of Meghalaya, stating that South Garo Hills has received sustained attention and focused intervention over the last seven years.
Highlighting development initiatives in the district, the Chief Minister said that over the past nearly eight years, he has visited Baghmara and other parts of South Garo Hills on several occasions to personally review progress and initiate key projects aimed at addressing long-standing gaps in infrastructure and public services.
Sangma pointed out that for over 23 years, South Garo Hills functioned without a dedicated Deputy Commissioner’s office building and operated from a sub-divisional office, reflecting years of neglect. He said that under the MDA Government, the issue is being addressed, with construction of the DC office building now underway. While staff quarters remain a challenge, the government is actively working to resolve the issue.
The Chief Minister also drew attention to the poor infrastructure at Captain Williamson Sangma College, stating that it is now receiving priority under the government’s push to strengthen educational institutions. Construction of a new college building is currently in progress.
Announcing a major boost to water infrastructure, Sangma said that Phase II of the Baghmara Water Supply Project has been sanctioned at a cost of ₹140 crore. He acknowledged delays in securing approval but confirmed that the project has now received clearance, with funds sanctioned by the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER).
On connectivity, the Chief Minister informed that the ambitious Darugre–Baghmara via Siju up to Dalu road project, estimated at ₹4,000 crore, is moving towards final approval. Land acquisition for the project has been completed, and the proposal is currently under consideration by the Ministry of Finance.
Emphasising that transformation is a gradual process, Sangma said the MDA Government has been working consistently to reverse decades of neglect. He added that the initiatives in South Garo Hills reflect the government’s intent, commitment, and focused approach towards ensuring equitable development and an improved quality of life for the people of the district.
