SHILLONG: In a move to boost infrastructure development in Shillong, the Centre has sanctioned a sum of Rs 146.79 crore for the construction of a new four-lane road and conversion of an existing two-lane road in the New Shillong Township (NST). The project will also include dedicated cycling tracks, utility ducts, and footpaths to enhance connectivity and promote sustainable transportation options.
The approval for this project comes under the Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North East Region (PM-DevINE) scheme, which was introduced as part of the Union Budget 2022-23. With an objective to accelerate development activities in the Northeastern states, PM-DevINE aims to address critical infrastructure gaps and uplift socio-economic conditions in these regions.
Earlier in July, Union Minister for DoNER, G Kishan Reddy, in a written reply in the Lok Sabha, had said that the New Shillong Township is set to get the highest amount of Rs 146.79 crore under the PM-DevINE for this year.
The scheme was announced as a new central sector scheme with 100% central funding in the Union Budget 2022-23 with an initial list of seven projects and an initial allocation of Rs 1,500 crore.
These projects encompass various sectors and are expected to bring about substantial improvements across key areas such as roads, education, healthcare facilities, tourism promotion among others.
It is worth noting that an impact study on the implementation of PM-DevINE is currently underway to assess its effectiveness and identify opportunities for further enhancements.
