Shillong: A joint inspection of the ongoing repair work on National Highway 6 (NH-6) was conducted on March 27, revealing concerns over slow progress in key sections of the highway.
The inspection was led by Santa Mary Shylla, MLA of Sutnga-Saipung Constituency, along with Deputy Commissioner of East Jaintia Hills District, Shivansh Awasthi, Superintendent of Police, Giri Prasad, NHAI officials, contractors, and other authorities. The team reviewed the repair status and urged the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to accelerate the work.
During a review meeting preceding the inspection, NHAI officials reported that 65% of the repairs had been completed, with the remaining work expected to conclude within two months. However, slow progress was observed beyond Sonapur, particularly in the Kuliang, Umkiang, and Ratacherra stretches.
The Deputy Commissioner emphasized that the administration remains in constant coordination with NHAI and has restricted heavy vehicle movement between 9 am and 5 pm to facilitate faster work. He also instructed NHAI to increase manpower and machinery to speed up repairs.
Raising concerns over traffic congestion, the Superintendent of Police identified critical zones where frequent vehicle breakdowns worsen the situation. He urged NHAI to prioritize these areas and ensure completion within two weeks to reduce commuter inconvenience.
Expressing dissatisfaction over the delays, MLA Santa Mary Shylla highlighted the suffering of local residents due to dusty roads, prolonged traffic delays, and poor conditions. “I have inspected the entire stretch from Khliehriat to Malidor, and the slow pace is concerning. We have directed NHAI to complete the work before the rainy season,” she said, promising to escalate the issue to higher authorities.
Local headmen from Umkiang and other residents present during the inspection urged NHAI and the district administration to maintain strict monitoring and expedite the remaining repairs to prevent further hardships.
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