Has Meghalaya Cleared Rs 268 Crore for Land Compensation in Highway Projects?
Synopsis
Meghalaya's Deputy CM, Prestone Tynsong, announced the disbursement of over Rs 268 crore in land compensation for highway projects. While many beneficiaries are satisfied, concerns remain about the exclusion of some landowners. Learn how the state is addressing these grievances and the progress of the compensation process.
Key Takeaways
Rs 268 crore allocated for land compensation.
2,414 beneficiaries have received compensation.
Compensation covers landowners affected by highway projects.
93-94% of the compensation process is complete.
Landowners can appeal compensation rates.
Shillong, Feb 19 (NationPress) The Deputy Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Prestone Tynsong, announced on Thursday that an amount exceeding Rs 268 crore has been allocated and distributed for the construction of National Highway projects in the districts of North Garo Hills and East Garo Hills.
In response to an inquiry in the State Assembly, Tynsong revealed that compensation has been awarded to 2,414 beneficiaries in the two districts.
In North Garo Hills, 187 beneficiaries have received compensation totaling Rs 43,96,924, while in East Garo Hills, a significantly higher sum of Rs 225,13,52,897.31 has been distributed to 2,227 beneficiaries.
The Deputy Chief Minister emphasized that the compensation package is intended for landowners whose properties, including land, structures, trees, and crops, have been impacted by the National Highway projects.
He further noted that the compensation process is largely complete and has been transferred to the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) to expedite construction.
In a follow-up query, Kharkutta MLA Rupert Momin highlighted that while many beneficiaries were pleased with their compensation and had used the funds for purchasing land or constructing homes, some individuals with valid land documents were still not included in the compensation roster.
Momin sought clarity on whether these families could reapply for compensation.
In addressing this concern, Tynsong indicated that approximately 93 to 94 percent of the land compensation process has been finalized.
However, he acknowledged that there are still unresolved grievances in certain areas where landowners are unhappy with the evaluations conducted by the district administration.
“In North Garo Hills, just four cases remain pending. Three cases are under review by an arbitrator, and one case involves a dispute among landowners,” the Deputy Chief Minister said.
He expressed optimism that these matters would be settled soon.
Tynsong also clarified that landowners who are dissatisfied with the compensation rates set by district authorities have the right to file a petition. These cases will be handled by a government-appointed arbitrator in line with existing regulations.
Point of View
It is crucial to highlight the significant steps taken by the Meghalaya government in addressing land compensation for highway projects. While the disbursement of over Rs 268 crore is commendable, the concerns raised by excluded landowners indicate the need for a transparent and inclusive process to ensure all affected parties are fairly compensated.
NationPress
6 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total amount of land compensation processed?
The total land compensation processed amounts to over Rs 268 crore.
How many beneficiaries received compensation?
A total of 2,414 beneficiaries across North Garo Hills and East Garo Hills received compensation.
Can excluded landowners reapply for compensation?
Yes, landowners who feel excluded can submit a petition for reconsideration.
What measures are in place for unresolved cases?
Unresolved cases are under review by an arbitrator, and landowners can challenge compensation rates.
What is the role of NHIDCL in this process?
NHIDCL is responsible for facilitating the construction work following the compensation disbursement.
