Shillong, April 10: The Estimates Committee of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly concluded a two-day comprehensive review meeting with six key departments — Education, Public Works Department (PWD), Public Health Engineering (PHE), Social Welfare, Home (Police), and Information Technology & Communication — on Friday.
The meeting was attended by Committee Chairman Shri Mayralborn Syiem, along with members Shri Ronnie V. Lyngdoh and Shri Shakliar Warjri.
Briefing the media after the meeting, Chairman Shri Mayralborn Syiem stated that, as mandated by the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, the Committee’s detailed report and recommendations will be placed on the Table of the House.
Department-wise Review Highlights,The Committee held detailed discussions on the implementation and progress of infrastructure projects, including construction works at Model Degree Colleges in Rongjeng and Patharkhmah, Kiang Nongbah College, and various polytechnics across the state.
Public Works Department (PWD):The Committee reviewed ongoing and planned projects under PWD (Buildings), including renovation and upgradation works of Meghalaya House and other infrastructure initiatives within and outside the state.
Public Health Engineering (PHE) Progress of the Greater Ampati Water Supply Scheme and its associated components was reviewed. The Committee directed the department to expedite completion of the project at the earliest.
Social Welfare,The Committee expressed concern over approximately 1,600 villages lacking Anganwadi Centres. The department was instructed to explore avenues for establishing these centres, including seeking support from the central government, despite challenges related to existing population and household guidelines.
Home (Police) Department,Discussions focused on infrastructure development within the department. The Committee emphasized timely completion of projects in accordance with budgetary provisions of the previous financial year.
Information Technology and Communication,The Committee appreciated the completion of the IT Park at Umsawli and expressed optimism that it will contribute to addressing unemployment.
The status of last-mile connectivity for high-speed internet was also reviewed, with the initiative reported to be in its final stages. Certain areas, including parts of Tura, are expected to be operational soon.
Chairman Shri Syiem underscored that the expansion of high-speed internet connectivity is expected to significantly transform the state’s future.
He further clarified that the role of the Estimates Committee is not to assign blame, but to ensure that budgetary provisions approved by the House are effectively implemented and that their intended benefits reach the public.
