Tura, April 19: The foundation stone for a multi-facility building at Dakopgre in West Garo Hills was laid on Saturday by Meghalaya Chief Minister Mr. Conrad K. Sangma in the presence of local leaders, community members, and other dignitaries.
The Chief Minister unveiled the foundation stone plaque, marking the formal commencement of the project. A prayer for the building construction was offered by Rev. Brinidita R. Marak of Dakopgre Baptist Church.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister described the project as a long-cherished aspiration of the people of Dakopgre and expressed happiness at being able to lay the foundation stone not only in his capacity as Chief Minister but also as the local MLA. He stated, “In the past eight years, I, together with my colleagues and officers, have worked as a team to bring transformative changes in the State,” adding that it was encouraging to witness the visible developmental progress in Tura town.
He outlined several key developmental initiatives in and around Dakopgre, including the P. A. Sangma Integrated Sports Complex, the Additional Secretariat, and the upcoming five-star hotel project, which is expected to give a significant boost to tourism in the region.
He also highlighted a major upcoming initiative for the beautification of the P. A. Sangma Road from Araimile Junction to Ballongre, which will include street lighting, CCTV installations, landscaping, and the creation of green spaces for public use.
Referring to connectivity, the Chief Minister spoke on the progress of Baljek Airport and noted that, upon completion of the ongoing and proposed projects, Dakopgre and Tura town as a whole would witness a major transformation. He emphasized that these developments would not only enhance the town’s overall infrastructure but also boost tourism and generate livelihood opportunities.
Commending the efforts of the Dakopgre Development Committee, both past and present, he acknowledged their dedication and persistence in bringing the project to fruition. He informed that an amount of ₹52 lakh has been sanctioned for the project, with funding shared equally between the Chief Minister’s Special Development Fund (CMSDF) and the Meghalaya Basin Development Authority (MBDA). He urged all stakeholders to ensure that quality is not compromised during construction.
The Chief Minister further suggested that the facility be utilized as a multi-purpose community hub, accommodating skill development programmes, youth clubs, indoor games, music and activity spaces, as well as coaching and study centres.
“There should be spaces for all these activities so that the youth can benefit meaningfully,” he said, while assuring continued government support for such initiatives. He also stressed the importance of organizing programmes for women, including training in tailoring, handicrafts, and food processing.
Highlighting upcoming events, he informed that Tura will host six disciplines during the National Games in 2027, with the closing ceremony also scheduled to be held in the town. Describing it as one of the biggest events in the State’s history, he said Dakopgre would play an important and strategic role during the Games.
He also announced that projects for installation of CCTV cameras and street lighting in localities will be taken up shortly. Urging community participation, the Chief Minister called upon the people of Dakopgre and Tura to work in close collaboration with the Government to ensure the success of the National Games and to contribute towards the broader goals of development, safety, and beautification of the town.
Earlier, the programme began with an introductory address by Donme Ch. Marak, followed by a prayer led by Wilme K. Marak, Assistant Pastor of Dakopgre Baptist Church. The Chief Guest and other dignitaries were felicitated during the programme.
The welcome address was delivered by Walsang D. Sangma, Nokma of Dakopgre, while the Dakopgre Ladies Club presented a welcome song. Emblington C. Marak, a senior citizen, also spoke on the occasion, highlighting the importance of the project for the local community.
A special cultural presentation by Regan Marak and friends added to the programme, followed by a short address by Cromwell Ch. Marak, Secretary of the Dakopgre Development Committee.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Tengkham A. Sangma, President of the Dakopgre Development Committee, followed by a benediction prayer by Susmita A. Sangma. The multi-facility building is expected to serve as a key hub for community activities and developmental initiatives in Dakopgre and adjoining areas.
