Byrnihat-Shillong railway project might be scrapped: Conrad Sangma

Northeast Diary
Shillong

The central government has directed the Meghalaya government to return nearly ₹270 crore allocated for land acquisition related to the stalled Byrnihat-Shillong railway project. Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma confirmed on Wednesday that the state has received an official communication regarding the matter.

Sangma acknowledged that the Centre would not wait indefinitely for the project to proceed. “We have already received a letter asking us to return the funds deposited for the Byrnihat and Shillong railway line. Technically, these projects will most likely be scrapped,” he stated.

The 108-km railway project has remained in limbo since 2016-17 due to strong opposition from local groups concerned about potential demographic changes. With the Centre now seeking reimbursement, the likelihood of reviving the project appears slim.

However, Sangma emphasized that the government remains open to exploring alternative railway connectivity options in Meghalaya, provided there is public consensus. He suggested that East Jaintia Hills could be a potential location for railway expansion if local support is strong, and a public hearing will be conducted to assess feasibility.

Meanwhile, the Hynñiewtrep Integrated Territorial Organization (HITO) has expressed firm opposition to another railway proposal—the Northeast Frontier Railway’s planned line from Chaparmukh in Assam to Jowai. The route would pass through Bhoksong, Rajagaon, Baithalangso, Jengkha, Kherani, and Umrangso before reaching Jowai.