Raphael Warjri

Khasi Students' Union South East Central Circle Vice President Basuklang Khongwar has called upon the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) to take urgent and serious steps to ensure public safety during the ongoing construction of the Shillong-Dawki road, particularly along the Pynursla stretch.

Addressing mediapersons, Khongwar said the demand gained urgency following a series of recent deaths reportedly caused by falling rocks triggered by blasting activities carried out during the road construction works. He said the situation has raised serious concern among local residents and commuters.

He informed that during a recent meeting with the Executive Director of NHIDCL, the KSU held detailed discussions on the challenges linked to the project and submitted several recommendations aimed at preventing further mishaps. Among the suggestions put forward were slope cutting along vulnerable stretches and the construction of protective retaining structures in steep areas to minimise risks, especially during the rainy season.

Khongwar further stated that the KSU had also recommended the immediate construction of a temporary road near the residence of K. Lyngkhoi at Pomlum to ease difficulties faced by the public. He added that the proposal had been accepted and would be pursued in coordination with the State Government.