SHILLONG: Shemborlang Rynjah, the MDC of Lyngkyrdem–Laitkroh and Joint Secretary of the Voice of the People Party (VPP), has formally reached out to the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, seeking urgent intervention regarding the deteriorating and hazardous condition of the Shillong–Pynursla–Dawki road.
In a memorandum submitted on April 27, Rynjah expressed grave concern over the state of this vital highway, which serves as the primary lifeline for local residents and the essential route to the international border at Dawki. He highlighted a grim statistic, noting that since 2023, approximately ten lives have been lost on this stretch due to frequent landslides and falling boulders triggered by the ongoing road expansion project.
The VPP leader specifically pointed to a recent tragic incident near Mawlieh, where two individuals were killed instantly after a massive boulder crushed their vehicle. He attributed such accidents to reckless earth-cutting and the absence of adequate safety measures at construction sites, where loose rocks are left unsecured, posing a constant threat to commuters.
The memorandum further stated that the failure to adhere to safety protocols has turned the highway into a death trap for locals as well as domestic and international tourists traveling to popular destinations like Dawki, Shnongpdeng, and Mawlynnong. Rynjah alleged that the negligence and apathy displayed by the implementing agencies and contractors constitute a violation of the fundamental right to life as guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution of India.
Beyond the immediate physical danger, the leader noted that the prolonged delay in completing the project has severely disrupted daily life. He emphasized that the poor road conditions cause significant hardships during medical emergencies, making it difficult for residents to reach hospitals in a timely manner.
In light of these issues, Rynjah has urged Union Minister Nitin Gadkari to order an independent safety audit of the road project and ensure the immediate installation of safety barriers, proper signages, and adequate lighting in high-risk zones. He also demanded that stringent action be taken against contractors and concerned government departments found guilty of negligence. Furthermore, he called for the expedited completion of the project to safeguard public lives. Copies of this memorandum have also been dispatched to the Chief Minister of Meghalaya, the Chief Secretary, and the Chairman of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) for necessary follow-up action.
