The completion of Meghalaya’s new Assembly building in Mawdiangdiang, Shillong, has been postponed to the autumn session of 2025. This decision was made during a High Power Committee (HPC) meeting on Wednesday, chaired by Assembly Speaker Thomas A. Sangma.
The delay is primarily due to the intricate and challenging design of the building’s dome, which requires precise and careful construction. Following the meeting, the Speaker said, “The HPC meeting today was very productive, and after much deliberation, we have reached several important decisions. While the progress so far is satisfactory, we are proceeding cautiously due to the unique structural design of the main hall dome. This design is unlike anything else in the region, and rushing the process could risk further setbacks.”
He further added, “A structural engineer has been stationed at the site to oversee quality control. While we initially hoped to hold the budget session in the new building, the sensitive nature of the remaining work makes it impossible. We now aim to complete the project and inaugurate the building before the autumn session of 2025.”
The dome’s construction is the major cause of the delay, with the speaker explaining that much of the pending work involves the intricate welding and installation of steel structures. “The work on the dome is highly detailed and requires significant precision,” he said.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, who also attended the meeting, emphasized the importance of meticulous planning to avoid complications, citing past mishaps. “While progress is steady, there have been challenges. Engineers from the Public Works Department (PWD), Project Management Consultants (PMC), and contractors have conducted several reviews to ensure all details are addressed. The HPC has agreed to extend the deadline by 100 days, making it impossible to hold the budget session as initially planned. However, we remain confident that the project will be completed by the autumn session of 2025,” he remarked.
The chief minister also highlighted major adjustments to the dome’s design and materials, aimed at enhancing stability and safety. “The previous design had the dome suspended on a platform, weighing 3,000 metric tons. The new design places the dome on the main beams and foundation, reducing the weight to 85 metric tons. This modification ensures better stability and addresses concerns regarding seismic safety, water leakage, and long-term maintenance,” he explained.
The meeting was attended by key officials, including Deputy Chief Ministers Prestone Tynsong (in-charge of Parliamentary Affairs and PWD Buildings) and Sniawbhalang Dhar (in-charge of Urban Affairs), along with MLAs Charles Pyngrope, Lahkmen Rymbui, Banteidor Lyngdoh, Chief Secretary D.P. Wahlang, Assembly Commissioner and Secretary Dr. Andrew Simons, and other officials.
The state government is committed to ensuring that the new Assembly building will not only be a landmark structure but also a functional and durable facility, offering a conducive working environment for legislators, staff, and political parties.
