Khliehriat West, Nov 19: Kerlang Ksoo, a resident of Dkhiah West in East Jaintia Hills, has called for urgent action from the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC) to establish a functional office in East Jaintia Hills, citing the persistent hardships faced by residents who must travel to Jowai for Council-related work.

Ksoo, speaking as a concerned member of the Hynniewtrep community, said he could no longer remain silent while people continue to struggle with long travel distances, poor road conditions, and heavy traffic congestion from Malidor/Ratacherra to Jowai. These factors frequently prevent citizens from completing their work in a single visit, causing widespread frustration.

He noted that despite the bifurcation of Jaintia Hills into East and West districts, residents of East Jaintia Hills still face the same difficulties, as all Council services remain centralized in Jowai. Many villagers are forced to return home without completing their tasks due to delays and deteriorating road conditions.

Ksoo revealed that he had written to the JHADC on May 22, 2025, urging the Council to open an office in East Jaintia Hills to ease the public burden. However, he said no response has been received so far.

He also raised concerns over a newly constructed two-storey Council building in Khliehriat, which remains abandoned and non-functional. He questioned why a building built with public funds is being left unused while citizens continue to suffer.

With the Council’s session scheduled for November 20, 2025, Ksoo appealed to the JHADC leadership to address the long-standing issues of the people and operationalise a full-fledged office in East Jaintia Hills to ensure better access to essential services.