Allocation raised to upgrade roads in State: Meghalaya CM Conrad K Sangma

STAFF CORRESPONDENT

SHILLONG: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Thursday announced his government decision to raise the allocation for the development of Road sector in the State. Making his announcement at the foundation stone-laying ceremony of a mini stadium at Bajengdoba, the Chief Minister stated, "The Government has enhanced the budget for road construction across Meghalaya compared to 2013-18, from Rs 700 crore. The MDA government sanctioned about Rs 1,800 crore for road construction in the past three years".

His declaration came one day ahead of the budget session of the State Assembly. The Chief Minister also made another spew of announcement on the plan to develop sports infrastructure. On upgradation of sports infrastructure, the Chief Minister said, "To improve sports facilities across the State, the Government of Meghalaya has earmarked Rs 100 crore for the year 2020-21. Of this, Rs 3 crore was sanctioned for Bajengdoba".

The new mini stadium that will come out in Bajendoba, East Garo Hills will be funded through the State Plan Scheme at a cost of Rs 3,01,85,000. It will be upgraded with AIFF/FIFA certified football turf, VIP, and spectators galleries, modern change room facilities, media centre, office spaces, parking areas, and commercial spaces. The development of an outdoor football stadium in the area has been a long-felt demand. The project will create a pathway for the youths and the citizens of the region to partake in sports and physical activities. He assured that the contruction of new stadium will be completed by 2022.

Bajengdoba MLA Pongseng Marak thanked CM Conrad K Sangma for his concerted effort to ensure growth and development in the State. He said that the creation of the stadium in Bajengdoba area will benefit the youth of the entire North Garo Hills district.

Kharkutta MLA Rupert Momin in his address stated that the youth of Garo Hills have talent. However, in the absence of sporting infrastructure, they are unable to unleash their talent to the full potential. He said that the creation of new sports infrastructure will provide the youth a platform to excel in sports and other activities.

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