Shillong, October 15: The Western Ri-Bhoi Dorbar & Social Welfare Organisation has urged the Meghalaya Power Distribution Corporation Limited (MePDCL) to complete the Nongpoh–Lailad power line by December 2026 to address persistent electricity supply problems in 110 villages across Western Ri-Bhoi.

Led by its president, L. Petal Mann Thangkhiew, the organisation conducted a joint inspection of the project on October 14 along with MePDCL officials and contractors.

Village headmen, community elders and representatives of the Synjuk ki Seng Samla Shnong Western Ri-Bhoi also took part in the inspection to assess the progress of work and press for its timely completion.

The organisation said work on the Nongpoh–Lailad power line had been ongoing for several years. While acknowledging MePDCL’s efforts to speed up the project this year, it expressed concern that contractors in certain stretches were progressing slowly and not giving the work adequate attention.

It urged MePDCL to closely monitor the contractors and ensure that the project is completed by December 2026, citing the difficulties faced by residents due to unreliable electricity supply.

The organisation also called for the immediate connection and energisation of the power line from Mairang via Lad Pnar in Eastern West Khasi Hills district.

According to the organisation, construction of the line was completed in June 2026, but the line has yet to be energised. While expressing gratitude to MePDCL for providing the infrastructure, it raised concern over the delay in making the line operational.

The organisation urged the authorities to expedite both projects to improve electricity supply and address the longstanding concerns of residents across Western Ri-Bhoi.