Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on May 23 participated in the “MLA Connect” programme at Matchikolgre in Tura, interacting directly with residents and community representatives to address local issues and strengthen grassroots governance.
The programme forms part of the government’s ongoing outreach efforts aimed at improving responsiveness and ensuring faster resolution of public concerns. During the interaction, residents, youth groups, local leaders and stakeholders highlighted issues related to roads, drainage, sanitation, drinking water, electricity and urban infrastructure.
Residents raised concerns over poor road conditions during the rainy season, stating that slippery routes often prevent garbage collection vehicles from reaching certain areas and create sanitation challenges. Responding to the issue, the Chief Minister directed the Tura Municipal Board to identify temporary solutions and said the government would examine the possibility of deploying four-wheel-drive garbage vehicles to improve access in difficult terrain.
Concerns were also raised regarding the condition of a local non-government primary school, including the lack of boundary walls, electricity, water supply and toilet facilities. Requests were also made for playground equipment for children. Sangma assured residents that the issues would be examined and appropriate assistance considered.
A youth organisation sought support for a basketball court and related youth infrastructure projects. The Chief Minister assured assistance through sports materials and musical instruments aimed at encouraging sports and cultural activities.
Electricity billing after the installation of smart meters also emerged as a key issue. Officials from Meghalaya Energy Corporation Limited explained that smart meters generate bills based on actual consumption, unlike earlier estimated billing systems. They also informed residents that a team would visit the locality to examine complaints and address any genuine discrepancies.
Residents additionally requested shared water supply facilities for families unable to afford individual connections. Sangma said the matter would be discussed with relevant departments.
The Chief Minister also urged citizens to participate in the ongoing economic census, stating that accurate data collection is important for welfare planning and targeted benefits.
Reaffirming the government’s focus on participatory governance, Sangma said direct engagement with citizens helps ensure that development projects address actual public needs. He added that the government remains committed to transforming Tura into a modern and well-planned urban centre through improvements in civic infrastructure and public services.
