Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma laid the foundation stone for the Shkentalang (NH-206) to Lumshyrmit road project in East Jaintia Hills on May 28, 2026. The scheme incorporates the construction of a major bridge over the Myntdu River that will connect to NH-6 at Kongong and covers a stretch of 18.64 kilometres. The total project cost has been estimated at Rs 764.3 million (mn) and includes both carriageway and bridge components to strengthen regional transport links.

The Chief Minister said the initiative is expected to improve connectivity, reduce travel time and strengthen accessibility for communities across the district. He added that the scheme would create better opportunities for trade and mobility and support inclusive economic growth for local residents. State authorities reiterated a commitment to developing stronger road infrastructure to accelerate development across Meghalaya and to link remote areas more effectively.

Officials noted that the bridge will provide a more direct route between local markets and the national highway network, reducing reliance on longer detours and improving freight movement. Improved road links are anticipated to facilitate access to health care, education and administrative centres, and to enhance emergency response times in the hilly district. Project implementation will follow standard procurement and engineering procedures with oversight from state departments to ensure timely delivery and durability of works.

Local leaders described expectations that the road and bridge will stimulate commerce and tourism while supporting daily commuting needs of residents in adjoining areas. Construction schedules, contractor appointments and monitoring arrangements were reported to be announced by the state government in due course as work is mobilised. The scheme complements other regional infrastructure projects and forms part of an ongoing effort to enhance connectivity and economic opportunity across the state.