SHILLONG: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has sanctioned Rs 290 crore for the urgent repair and maintenance of National Highway 6 (NH-6), addressing longstanding concerns over its deteriorating condition.
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) officials clarified that Rs 200 crore will be allocated for the repair and upkeep of the severely affected Jowai-Ratacherra section.
An additional Rs 90 crore has been earmarked for addressing landslide-prone areas, particularly at Sonapur, with work scheduled to commence post-monsoon.
The NH-6 is a significance artery connecting multiple states in the Northeast.
The highway spans crucial cities and towns such as Jorabat, Shillong, Jowai, Silchar, Aizawl, and Agartala, extending to the India-Myanmar border.
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The urgency for repairs was underscored by recent concerns raised by the Meghalaya High Court, which reviewed photographic evidence depicting alarming conditions in the East Jaintia Hills District.
Earlier in September 2023, the High Court had expressed serious concern over the deteriorated state of roads in the region, disputing NHAI’s claims of NH-6’s good condition apart from near the Sonapur tunnel.
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Highlighting a nearly 2 km stretch passing through Khliehriat town, where locals resort to fishing in rain-filled potholes due to poor road conditions, the Division Bench issued these remarks during PIL No.11/2022 with Kynjaimon Amse as the petitioner against NHAI and others.
Citing possible insufficient funding for regular upkeep, the court instructed NHAI’s Northeast regional head to personally inspect the area, drive the Jowai-to-Ratacherra stretch, and submit a detailed report outlining the road’s condition and urgent corrective actions.
The announcement comes as a relief to residents and commuters grappling with persistent challenges along NH-6, heralding a renewed commitment to infrastructure development in the region.
