Shillong: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on June 23 addressed a wide range of public concerns during a citizen interaction programme held at Mawkdok Playground, with villagers from remote areas highlighting the urgent need for better healthcare infrastructure and essential services.
Under the state’s CM Connect initiative, Sangma engaged directly with residents, many of whom raised alarm over the absence of Sub-Centres and Mini Primary Health Centres in villages hampered by poor road connectivity. Responding promptly, the Chief Minister instructed the Health Department to identify locations where such facilities can be established to serve the state’s underserved populations.
Describing the programme as a vital link between grassroots concerns and government policy, Sangma said, “These platforms are essential for understanding real challenges faced by our people.”
Legislators Gavin Mylliem (Sohra) and Matthew B. Kurbah (Mawphlang) participated in the session and praised the direct engagement approach. Kurbah further requested that the CM Connect initiative be replicated in the Mawphlang Block to surface more local issues in a similar fashion.
Residents brought to light multiple infrastructure gaps across the region. Several schools continue to suffer from teacher shortages, while electricity supply remains inconsistent in areas like KhatarShnong, where difficult terrain obstructs regular maintenance and expansion of power lines. Road infrastructure for agricultural zones was flagged as a critical need, with farmers facing transportation challenges due to inaccessible and poorly maintained routes.
Despite these concerns, villagers acknowledged positive developments in the tourism sector and welcomed the proposal to introduce a dedicated tourism police force to support safe and sustainable travel in the area. While government-led efforts to enhance water supply were appreciated, citizens urged for improved distribution systems to ensure access in rural homes, schools, and healthcare facilities.
An innovative suggestion also surfaced for installing ropeways in remote villages like Phong, aimed at easing the movement of agricultural produce from hilly farms to markets.
Officials from relevant government departments were present at the session to offer immediate clarifications and address on-the-spot queries. The programme concluded with the distribution of cheques to Self Help Groups and community-based organisations that are actively driving rural development.
Following the event, CM Sangma visited Swer village to review the Swer-Mawrah Water Supply Scheme and its access road construction. He also stopped at the Ramakrishna Mission School, where he held discussions with the institution’s administration and pledged government support to resolve ongoing challenges.
Reassuring residents, the Chief Minister affirmed that all issues raised would be seriously addressed through coordination with the concerned departments.