Residents of several villages along the NH-217 Tura–Dalu corridor have strongly rejected NHIDCL’s recent public claim of “successful completion” of road widening and geometric improvements, saying that in many stretches, construction has not even begun.
NHIDCL’s post highlighted progress under the JICA-funded programme, but villagers across Rongmil, Rongjeng and surrounding areas say the announcement ignores unresolved land disputes, unfair compensation, and ongoing legal cases that have halted work on the ground.
Chintu G. Momin of Rongmil, whose land falls within the expansion zone, said residents have not accepted the “inadequate” compensation. “Work has not started here because families like mine are still waiting for fair compensation. How can they claim successful completion?” he said.
In Rongmil, Gabil Bisa, landowner Phulbalin G. Momin said the contractor attempted to enter and damage parts of her property, prompting her to file a legal case. “The matter is still in court. No construction is happening. Their claim is false,” she stated.
In Rongjeng Bazar, commercial shop owners including Shamina N. Sangma said they have refused the valuation offered by NHIDCL. “They cannot call the project completed when affected people have not agreed,” she said.
Villagers argue that key stretches remain untouched due to stalled land acquisition processes and pending disputes. They allege that NHIDCL’s announcement overlooks mandatory procedures under law, including fair valuation, consultation and consent of affected stakeholders.
With opposition continuing and compensation disagreements unresolved, residents say NHIDCL’s claim of “successful completion” does not reflect ground realities along NH-217.
#NH217 #GaroHills #NHIDCL #LandAcquisition #CompensationDispute #Meghalaya #Infrastructure #TuraDaluRoad
