Meghalaya’s push for superior road networks took a decisive step forward with the approval and distribution of over ₹268 crore in compensation to landowners in North and East Garo Hills, as shared by Deputy Chief Minister Preston Tinsong during assembly proceedings.
A total of 2,414 people benefited, with detailed figures showing ₹43.96 lakh to 187 in North Garo Hills and a whopping ₹225.13 crore to 2,227 in the eastern district. The amounts recompense for lands, buildings, trees, and crops surrendered for national highway expansions.
Tinsong noted the near-completion of the compensation phase, now transferred to NHIDCL for seamless project execution. This handover is crucial amid ongoing construction timelines.
Supplementary queries from MLA Rupert Momin pointed to mixed outcomes: satisfied recipients rebuilding lives contrasted with overlooked families holding valid titles. Addressing this, the Deputy CM detailed a 93-94% closure rate, confining pendency to four North Garo Hills matters—three arbitrated, one stalled by landowner disagreements.
He reiterated options for appeals against compensation rates, handled via official arbitrators under regulatory guidelines. This initiative not only resolves immediate grievances but positions Meghalaya as a model for equitable infrastructure advancement in hilly terrains.