Former Shillong MP Vincent H. Pala has criticized the Meghalaya government for the abrupt closure of the Umiam Bridge, stating that such decisions should be announced at least a month in advance, as is the practice elsewhere in the country.
Speaking to the media, Pala highlighted the severe inconvenience caused to the public, noting that the Umiam Bridge serves as a critical route for commuters. He added that the sudden closure has disrupted travel and led to a spike in the cost of essential goods due to longer detours and increased transportation costs.
Pala condemned the government’s lack of foresight, stressing that the move has imposed unnecessary hardships on the public and raised the prices of daily necessities.