SHILLONG, MAY 28: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Thursday laid the foundation for four road projects worth Rs 488 crore covering 108.24 km in East and West Jaintia Hills, stating the projects will improve connectivity and spur economic activity in the region.

The projects include three at Latyrke Village worth about Rs 412 crore and one at Lumshyrmit Village worth Rs 76.43 crore. Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar, MLAs Santa Mary Shylla and Kyrmen Shylla, and officials were present.

“Expressing happiness in announcing the foundation stone laying for the large project sanctioned by the World Bank for East Jaintia Hills,” Sangma said the road projects “will improve connectivity in the region while boosting economic activity while facilitating access to essential services like healthcare and education.”

He acknowledged local MLA Santa Mary Shylla’s efforts and said, “The tender for the road projects has been called and work is expected to start in about 45 days.”

On development, the Chief Minister said, “Economic development is inclusive and benefits the entire state not just specific regions or constituencies,” and reiterated the government’s commitment to “all round development and the importance of such projects.”

Addressing the coal mining ban, Sangma said, “The government has been working persistently to lift the coal mining ban and implement scientific mining practices.”

He added, “Negotiations with the Government of India are ongoing to ensure sustainable mining practices,” and stressed “balancing the needs of large and small miners to achieve long-term sustainability.”

He said the projects will bring “long term economic benefits to the area, facilitating tourism access besides connecting numerous villages in the area.”

At Lumshyrmit, where the foundation was laid for the Shkemtalang to Lumshyrmit Road with a major bridge on the Myntdu River, Sangma said the road “will open up numerous opportunities for the local people including tourism, agriculture and daily needs like education and medical attention.” He confirmed “completion of tender and the on boarding of the contractor for the project.”

He also stressed balancing growth with community interests, “The government has been trying to propagate this balance and involve the community in development projects to ensure sustainable growth.”

The Chief Minister announced support for the Indoor Stadium at Latyrke “as wished by the residents of the village.”