Shillong, August 18: Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) President and former Lok Sabha MP, Vincent H. Pala, on Monday met Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma to push for the urgent upgradation of the DSSH Road to National Highway status, citing its critical economic importance for the State.
The DSSH Road is a key transport corridor, carrying nearly 80% of coal from the Jaintia Hills and linking resource-rich areas such as Sutnga, Sumer, Saipung, and Nongkhlieh. Pala, in a memorandum submitted to the Chief Minister, highlighted the deteriorating condition of the road and the severe impact it has had on trade and on the lives of local residents.
He pointed out that while the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) had earlier cleared the upgradation proposal, the project has yet to see implementation. He also acknowledged the State Government’s move to include the road under the World Bank scheme, but stressed that “immediate action is necessary in light of the worsening condition and daily hardships faced by communities.”
Chief Minister Conrad Sangma assured Pala that the matter would be taken up and necessary steps would follow.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Pala said: “This road is not just about connectivity; it is about livelihoods, trade, and the welfare of thousands of people. The delay in its upgradation has caused immense suffering. I welcome the assurance of the Chief Minister and will continue to pursue this matter until the people receive the infrastructure they rightfully deserve.”
The demand adds political weight to long-standing calls for improving the DSSH Road, which remains one of the most vital yet neglected routes in Meghalaya’s transport network.
