Tura, Nov 17: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Monday inaugurated the newly constructed Jengjal Police Station in West Garo Hills, calling it one of the best police stations in Meghalaya and a model for future infrastructure upgrades across the state.
The inauguration was attended by Director General of Police Idashisha Nongrang; Deputy Commissioner Vibhor Aggarwal; Superintendent of Police Abraham T. Sangma; DIG (Western Range) J.F.K. Marak; MIDC Chairman James K. Sangma; senior officials, police personnel and community members.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said the new station’s strategic location will ensure better accessibility and faster response to public needs. He thanked the Nokma and local residents for donating land for the project and said the building conforms to the standards laid down by the Government of India.
Sangma announced that the state is committed to ensuring uniformity in police infrastructure. “All police stations across the state will be upgraded, renovated or constructed as per national norms,” he said.
He added that the Police Infrastructure Renovation Fund has simplified repair and renovation processes, enabling SPs to take up work without waiting for state government sanctions. Several stations have already been upgraded under this system, he informed.
The Chief Minister also highlighted progress in filling vacancies in the Police Department. Over 3,000 posts are currently in the final stages of recruitment the largest police recruitment drive in the state’s history—which he said will address long-standing manpower shortages.
On key developments in Jengjal, Sangma announced that the government will sanction ₹50 crore within this month to the Airport Authority of India for work on the Jengjal Airport. Once completed, 19-seater Air Alliance flights will operate from the airport, with Shillong–Tura routes given top priority. The government is also identifying land in the area to host future mega events.
Emphasising the crucial role of the police in peace and progress, he said the state is working with the department to adopt advanced technologies for cyber management, surveillance and law-and-order systems. He urged personnel to balance firmness with empathy, reminding them of their responsibility to serve the people.
DGP Idashisha Nongrang, in her remarks, said the new building is equipped with essential facilities including a general room, lock-up, officer-in-charge’s room, child-friendly spaces and a dedicated women help desk. She described the project as a step toward meeting both present and future policing needs and thanked the Chief Minister for his support.
MIDC Chairman James K. Sangma said the new police station fulfils a long-standing demand of the people and will significantly strengthen law and order in the region. He said modern policing requires modern facilities and appreciated the DGP’s leadership in maintaining peace across the district.
DIG J.F.K. Marak, in his welcome address, said the police station first notified in July 2017—had been functioning from a rented Assam-type building for years. The new structure marks a major improvement in service delivery and law enforcement capabilities, he noted.
DC Vibhor Aggarwal, said Jengjal’s position as a link between West, North and East Garo Hills makes the upgraded police station a crucial milestone for administration, traffic management and overall development. He highlighted upcoming events and the revival of the Baljek Airport as indicators of the region’s growth.
The programme featured cultural performances by students of St. Anthony’s School, Jengjal and a musical presentation by the Rhythm School of Music.
