Railway Ministry Sets Deadline for Meghalaya to Resolve Byrnihat and Shillong Rail Projects

Chief Minister also met with the Union Minister for Minority Affairs to discuss development projects worth over Rs. 1,000 crores.

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has acknowledged growing pressure from the Railway Ministry regarding the state’s long-delayed railway projects in Byrnihat and Shillong. During discussions with the Railway Minister, the Chief Minister was informed that a firm deadline of three to six months may soon be imposed on the state government to resolve the ongoing issues surrounding these projects.

The Railway Ministry warned that if Meghalaya fails to make a decision within the stipulated timeframe, the Rs. 200 crore allocated for land acquisition, currently held by the Deputy Commissioner since 2017, would have to be returned. In such a scenario, the projects could be scrapped altogether, and the funds may be diverted to other parts of the state where communities are more open to railway development.

Chief Minister Conrad Sangma reiterated his stance that the concerns of stakeholders must be addressed and the local community must be taken into confidence before moving forward with such significant infrastructure projects. He highlighted the need for additional time to engage with communities and address their apprehensions regarding the railway projects.

The Railway Minister, while understanding the complexities of the situation, stressed the urgency of the matter and hinted at a personal visit to Meghalaya to hold discussions with stakeholders. He emphasised that resolving the impasse quickly is essential, given the economic and developmental benefits that these projects promise.

Highlighting the potential impact of the railway projects, Chief Minister Sangma noted that they are valued at several thousand crores and could bring transformative development to the state. However, he appealed for patience and more time to deliberate with stakeholders and resolve the community’s concerns within the limited timeframe provided by the Railway Ministry.

In a related development, the Chief Minister also met with the Union Minister for Minority Affairs to discuss development projects worth over Rs. 1,000 crores. The state has submitted proposals for various initiatives, and the Ministry has sought further clarifications. Expressing optimism, Sangma said he hopes some of these projects will receive approval soon, signaling the state’s ongoing efforts to secure central support for Meghalaya’s growth and development.

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