Shillong, October 10: Residents of Kbet Nongbri village in Ri-Bhoi district can now benefit from a newly constructed 2-km internal road, fulfilling a long-standing demand for improved road connectivity within the village.

Nongpoh MLA Mayralborn Syiem inaugurated the road on Saturday by cutting the ribbon. The project was constructed under a state government scheme at a cost of ₹2.63 crore.

Following the inauguration, a public meeting was held at the village football ground, which also marked the commencement of a football tournament organised by the Kbet Sports Club.

Among those present at the programme were SDO PWD Ri-Bhoi D. Shylla, SDO PHE E. Lyngdoh, PWD Executive Engineer R. Warjri, Syiem of Raid Nongbri B. S. Syiem, Kbet Nongbri village headman R. Mawphniang, local leaders, representatives from neighbouring villages and other invited guests.

The programme was enlivened by cultural performances, including traditional dances and songs presented by the village youth.

Addressing the gathering, MLA Mayralborn Syiem urged residents to take proper care of the newly constructed road, stressing that the local community would be among its primary users and beneficiaries.

He also announced that the Education Department would take steps to construct a new building for Kbet Government Lower Primary School in the coming year.