Conrad urges Delhi for more projects to Meghalaya

A Correspondent

Shillong, April 3: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma today called on several Union Minister’s in New Delhi to brief them about the new initiatives conceptualised by the Government to push the agenda of growth and development in the State.

Conrad met Union Exterl Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj seeking her intervention on road connectivity between Bangladesh and Meghalaya and alsom mentioned about the Shillong–Dhaka and Tura–Dhaka routes.

Swaraj has assured to consider the request.

She said that the issue would be taken up in North-east Chief Minister’s meet to be held in New Delhi on May 4.

Swaraj assured that all central assistance would be extended to Meghalaya and other North-eastern states to improve relations with the neigbouring countries to enhance trade and cultural ties.

The Chief Minister said Meghalaya shares over 440 km border with Bangladesh, which could be considered to devise a new strategy ‘Act South’ to ensure growth of trade and commerce in the region. The Chief Minister also proposed for issue of work permit to Bangladeshi tiols to address the challenge of infiltration, to which the Union Minister said that it would be discussed and examined.

On the other hand, during his meeting with Union Minister for Road Transport & Highway Nitin Gadkari, the Chief Minister discussed at length on expediting the ongoing road projects in Meghalaya with particular focus on the dilapidated roads connecting Tura with Baghmara, Baghmara with Ranikor, AMPT road and the Nongstoin–Maweit road among others.

Nitin Gadkari assured that all roads in the State would be improved on priority basis for economic growth and reduction of the travel time. The Union Minister also sought for proposal for creating wayside amenities.

During his meeting with Union Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju, Conrad Sangma gave an outline of the law and order situation of the State and discussed developmental issues and new initiatives, which are being taken up by the state government. On his part, Rijiju assured all cooperation and support to push the development agenda of the state forward.

The Chief Minister discussed the power scerio in the state during his meeting with Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Power RK Singh. The Union Minister has set the agenda that as early as possible all villages in Meghalaya should be electrified, while assuring all cooperation to strengthen the electricity system in Meghalaya. The Union Minister opined that Meghalaya should take advantage of Atal Jyoti Yoja to put up 2000 solar streetlights in each constituency of the State and install solar energy panels in Government establishments and institutions.

On the request by the Chief Minister for hybrid renewable energy potential like solar, hydro and wind, Singh said that provision are there and the Ministry will expedite the process on submission of proposals from the State.