SHILLONG, JULY 12: Failing to implement the ‘smart road’ project, the Meghalaya Government cancelled its implementation as lack of availability of land is cited as one of the key reasons.
Speaking to Media persons on Friday, deputy chief minister incharge urban affairs Sniawbhalang Dhar said, “The first phase of the smart road project has been cancelled. We already had a meeting in presence of the deputy chief minister incharge PWD (Roads) and I because we faced so much difficulty (in implementing the project). Therefore, we have cancelled it. Only 3-4% work has been done.”
“In view of this, we already decided we will put a fresh estimate from the state plan. We will try to resurface all the city roads. It will be like a smart road from the state plan through the PWD department. So the DPR preparation is on the progress right now,” he said.
Dhar informed, “We have cancelled it as it is not feasible and that no land is available…The officers will make an incomplete financial bill (following this decision). Therefore, we have decided to resurface all important roads within the city.” According to him, very little amount has been spent on the failed smart road project.
Dhar informed that he had recently held a review meeting on the progress of all smart city projects.
“Few projects may be inaugurated in the months of August and September. As per report, all projects are in good progress. So hopefully I think it will be very helpful for people, for example, when the Polo markets, Laitumkhrah market, ICCC are ready. Presently around both smart city and from the state plan also around 12-13 parkings are under progress right now. We are monitoring and my officers are on the job to ensure that the projects are completed within stipulated time,” he said.