Shillong, June 21: A road project worth more than Rs 59 crore aimed at strengthening connectivity in Meghalaya’s West Jaintia Hills district was inaugurated on Saturday, with authorities stating that the new route will enhance transportation, improve access to markets and facilitate the delivery of essential services.
The Jowai-Nartiang-Kdiap-Khanduli (JNKK) Road has been developed with funding support from the New Development Bank and links several important areas of the district. Officials said the improved road network is expected to boost economic activities and create better livelihood opportunities by easing the movement of people and goods.
During her visit to West Jaintia Hills, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman also inspected the newly built Wahiajer Football Stadium, which was developed under the Centre’s Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme.
Built at a cost exceeding Rs 65 crore across a 16-acre area, the stadium is among the largest sporting facilities in the region. It features a FIFA-standard football ground, a World Athletics-certified eight-lane 400-metre synthetic track, a 100-metre sprint track and infrastructure for events including long jump, triple jump, pole vault, steeplechase, javelin throw, shot put and discus throw.
The sports complex can accommodate over 6,000 spectators, with seating arrangements for around 4,300 people in the stands, and is expected to host football and athletics competitions in the future.
Sitharaman also interacted with students and local athletes at the venue and underlined the importance of modern sports infrastructure in creating opportunities for young talent. Officials said the road and stadium projects are part of ongoing efforts to strengthen infrastructure and improve public amenities in Meghalaya.
