Northeast, July 16, 2024: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma has unveiled plans for the Wah Umkhrah waterfront rejuvenation and beautification project, aimed at enhancing urban appeal and sustainability in the state. Valued at Rs 39 crore, the initiative has already been tendered out, with work expected to commence shortly.
“We expect the work to start soon,” stated CM Sangma during a recent meeting, underscoring the imminent launch of beautification efforts. The project aims to transform the riverside area with aesthetic enhancements and sustainable urban planning strategies.
Describing the project’s scope, Sangma highlighted, “You can see the waterfront, all those circles with things that are there around the riverside. All this beautification work is going to happen now.” While initially focused on a small stretch of the river, the project marks a significant step towards enhancing public spaces.
Emphasizing the potential impact on tourism, Sangma drew parallels with other successful initiatives in the sector. However, he acknowledged challenges related to river cleanliness, noting, “Until the river is clean, no matter how much beautification we do, it’s not really going to serve the purpose.”
The Chief Minister stressed a holistic approach to urban development, stating, “All will have to go hand in hand,” and expressing optimism that beautification efforts will spur broader initiatives for river cleaning and maintenance.
This project represents a strategic move towards sustainable urban development in Meghalaya, aiming to balance aesthetic improvements with environmental stewardship. As the project progresses, it is expected to serve as a potential model for similar initiatives across the state, promoting both tourism and local well-being.
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