Meghalaya: In a major infrastructural push for Meghalaya, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari declared the allocation of Rs. 1241 Crores for the enhancement and expansion of the Phulbari-Tura segment on National Highway 127B. This transformative project, set to upgrade the existing infrastructure into a two-lane thoroughfare with paved shoulders, holds significant promise for improving connectivity and catalyzing economic development in the region.
North East Road Network Connectivity Improvement:
The initiative is part of the North East Road Network Connectivity Improvement, facilitated by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) ODA Loan Phase-VII. Covering a total distance of 63.224 kilometers, the project is divided into Packages 1 and 2, emphasizing the comprehensive approach taken to address connectivity challenges in the region.
Enhanced Connectivity between Assam and Meghalaya:
Minister Nitin Gadkari underscored the project’s strategic significance, aiming to enhance connectivity between Assam and Meghalaya. The upgraded highway will cater to traffic originating from West Bengal and the Bhutan Border, facilitating smoother access to Tura and other parts of Meghalaya through NH-217 (Tura-Dalu side) and Tura-Jengjal-Rongjeng-Nongstoin-Shillong.
Integration with Dhubri-Phulbari Bridge:
The successful culmination of the Dhubri-Phulbari Bridge assumes additional importance with its integration into Dalu LCS through this project road. This development is poised to establish a pivotal North-South logistics corridor for Meghalaya. The corridor is expected to play a crucial role in fostering increased cross-border traffic between India and Bangladesh, contributing to regional progress and economic collaboration.
Economic Impacts and Regional Progress:
The substantial investment in upgrading the Phulbari-Tura highway reflects the government’s commitment to bolstering infrastructure in the North East. Improved road networks are not only instrumental in enhancing regional connectivity but also play a pivotal role in promoting economic activities, trade, and tourism.
As Meghalaya looks forward to the realization of this ambitious project, the enhanced connectivity is anticipated to open up new avenues for development, ease the movement of goods and people, and contribute to the overall progress of the North East region.
