Tura, January 13 : A landmark day dawned in the Garo Hills region as the majestic Raj Bhavan was inaugurated in Tura on January 12, 2024. Governor Phagu Chauhan virtually graced the momentous occasion, while Chief Minister Shri Conrad K Sangma, Thomas A Sangma, Speaker, Meghalaya Legislative Assembly and Agatha K Sangma, Member of Parliament, Tura, Chief Secretary, D. P Wahlang, Commissioner of Division, Dr.Vijay Kumar D and Deputy Commissioner Jagdish Chelani were physically present and took tour of the impressive campus.
This impressive complex, nestled in the Danakgre area, stands as a testament to the government’s commitment to administrative decentralization beyond the capital region. Built at a cost of Rs.24.1 crores and spanning 28.45 acres, the Raj Bhavan is a symbol of architectural excellence and civic pride.
“This project is another milestone towards enhanced governance in the Garo Hills region,” declared the Hon’ble Governor in his virtual address.
Chief Minister Sangma, beaming with pride, stated, “The Raj Bhavan stands as a beacon of our government’s dedication to development and progress. It not only represents architectural prowess but also embodies the heart of Tura’s promising future. We are honored to welcome Hon’ble President of India, Smt Draupadi Murmu, to this very complex during her upcoming visit.”
Envisioned as an “Assam type” building, the project’s journey began in 2009 with an initial cost of Rs. 5.48 crores and a target completion of 3 years. However, unforeseen circumstances necessitated revisions and delays.
In 2021, under the leadership of Chief Minister Sangma, the project received a much-needed revival. Two new work orders were issued, expanding the scope and pushing the total cost to Rs.24.1 crores. With constant monitoring and dedication, the project was completed in just 3 years, showcasing the government’s commitment to efficiency.
The Raj Bhavan’s inauguration marks a new chapter for Tura, setting the stage for it to become a focal point for official events and ceremonies.
But the government’s vision extends beyond Tura. Chief Minister Sangma emphasized their focus on strengthening administrative infrastructure across the entire state.
In Shillong, plans are underway to relocate the Secretariat and other government offices to the New Shillong City at Mawdiangdiang, complete with an iconic Secretariat Building, residential complexes, and robust infrastructure.
Similarly, an Integrated Administrative Complex is being conceptualized in Tura to bring all government departments under one roof, while Jowai already boasts an Integrated Administrative Complex under construction.
The government’s commitment to improved service delivery doesn’t stop there. Over 700 CM Citizen Service Delivery centers are planned across Meghalaya, acting as one-stop shops for citizens to access various services.
The inauguration of the Raj Bhavan is a significant step towards fulfilling the government’s vision of decentralization, improved governance, and citizen-centric service delivery. With these ambitious projects underway, Meghalaya is poised for a brighter future, where every region thrives and flourishes.
