Shillong: In a significant decision, the Meghalaya Government has decided to cancel the smart road projects under the Shillong Smart City initiative, citing feasibility issues. The announcement was made by Deputy Chief Minister and Urban Affairs Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar.
The incomplete smart road in the Lachumiere area, one of the 17 Smart City projects planned for the city, is among those affected.
Dhar explained that the first phase of the Smart City project has been canceled after it was determined that it was not feasible. He noted that only 3-4 percent of the work had been completed.
The government will now develop fresh estimates from the State plan to resurface major roads in the city, aiming to achieve a smart road-like quality. Dhar stated that the government is preparing the estimates and detailed project report (DPR) for this new initiative.
Addressing the reasons behind the project’s cancellation, Dhar pointed to the non-availability of land and narrow roads as major factors. He added that officers will prepare an incomplete financial bill for the unfinished smart road in Lachumiere.
“Instead of smart roads, we thought it would be much better to resurface the major roads, which will be like smart roads. Why waste time if we can achieve similar results?” he said, noting that only a small amount had been spent on the project so far.
Dhar also mentioned that similar problems have arisen with smart road projects in other cities. Despite the cancellation of the smart road projects, Dhar highlighted that most other projects under the Shillong Smart City initiative are progressing well, with some set to be inaugurated by August-September this year.
Dear Reader,
Every day, our team at EastMojo travels through rain, rough roads, and remote hills to bring you stories that matter – stories from your town, your people, your Northeast.
We do this because we believe in truthful, independent journalism. No big corporate backing, no government pressure – just honest reporting by local journalists who live and breathe the same air you do.
But to keep doing this work, we need you. Your small contribution helps us pay our reporters fairly, reach places others ignore, and keep asking the tough questions.
If you believe the Northeast deserves its own fearless voice, stand with us.
Support independent journalism. Be a Member.
Thank you,
Karma Paljor
Editor-in-Chief, eastmojo.com
He pointed out that projects at markets in Polo and Laitumkhrah, as well as the Integrated Command Control Centre, are ready. Additionally, work on 1,200-1,300 parking lots under the State plan is also progressing well.
Dhar stated that the government is even preparing for Smart City 2.0 and called on pressure groups in the state to collaborate with the government to move the state forward. His comments followed recent disturbances caused by pressure groups visiting different project sites and checking the documents of labourers.
Also Read | Meghalaya MLA urges DoNER minister to expedite road project