Shillong, April 28: Deputy Chief Minister in-charge PWD (Roads) Prestone Tynsong on Tuesday said the proposed High-Speed Corridor project is expected to significantly boost economic activity in Meghalaya while drastically cutting travel time across key routes.
Speaking to media persons, Tynsong said tenders for Package I and II of the project have already been invited, with land in Ri Bhoi district largely finalised. He added that the alignment for the corridor has been completed in Khasi Hills and West Jaintia Hills, while discussions are ongoing for certain stretches in East Jaintia Hills.
Highlighting the impact on travel, he said the expressway would considerably reduce journey duration. “Instead of travelling for three hours, the distance will be shortened significantly, saving substantial time for commuters,” he noted.
Describing the project as an economic corridor, Tynsong said Meghalaya’s strategic position as a transit state in the region would lead to increased traffic flow and, in turn, stronger economic growth. “This corridor will enhance connectivity and boost economic activities, as Meghalaya serves as a key transit route. Once completed, we expect a significant rise in movement and business opportunities,” he said.
On the question of why the project is not being developed as a six-lane expressway, Tynsong cited the state’s challenging terrain. “Meghalaya is a hilly state, and even constructing two-lane roads is difficult in many areas. Expanding to four lanes itself is a major challenge, so six-laning is not feasible due to these geographical constraints,” he explained, referring to the difficulties seen in stretches like the Shillong–Dawki road.
He further informed that the four-laning of the Umiam–Shillong stretch has been entrusted to the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (NHIDCL), with the state government deciding to upgrade the route from Umiam junction (Lad Umroi) up to Shillong.
The High-Speed Corridor is expected to play a crucial role in improving connectivity and accelerating economic development across the state.
