Shillong, Feb 3, 2025: The Meghalaya government recently created the 56th Community and Rural Development (C&RD) Block, however, concerns have emerged regarding the operational status of several block offices. Many of these newly established C&RD blocks lack proper office infrastructure, raising questions about their functionality.
C&RD Minister A.T. Mondal, when asked about the issue, assured that the matter is being addressed. “We hope to get these sanctions very soon, and all the block headquarters proposals are in the pipeline,” he said.
Before the 2023 elections, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma inaugurated nine C&RD blocks, with the latest addition being the Mawhati C&RD Block, inaugurated just last week. Mondal reiterated the government’s commitment to infrastructure development. “It’s not that we are not going to construct. All nine C&RD blocks that were established and inaugurated earlier, along with the present one—altogether 10 blocks—are in the process of getting proper office buildings,” he stated.
While these 10 new blocks await office infrastructure, some older C&RD blocks have also faced delays in getting permanent office buildings. “All old block buildings have been constructed, some have been inaugurated, and some are on the verge of completion. Very soon, a few more will be inaugurated,” Mondal added.
Regarding financial and administrative approvals, Mondal confirmed that the proposals have been submitted. “We have posted all these to the Planning and Finance departments, so very soon we will be getting the necessary approvals. The moment we get them, we will tender out the projects and start construction,” he said.
The recent inauguration of the Mawhati C&RD Block by Chief Minister Conrad Sangma is aimed at improving access to government services for local residents. In his speech, Sangma emphasized that the establishment of the Mawhati block was a direct response to the need for more accessible administrative services.