Meghalaya CM Conrad K. Sangma on May 23 participated in the “MLA Connect” programme held at Matchikolgre area in Tura, where he directly interacted with residents and community representatives to address civic concerns and strengthen grassroots governance.

The programme forms part of the government’s continuing efforts to improve public outreach and ensure quicker resolution of local issues. During the interaction, residents, youth organisations, local leaders and stakeholders highlighted concerns related to roads, drainage, sanitation, public facilities, electricity supply, drinking water and urban infrastructure.

Locals pointed out that slippery roads during the rainy season often prevent garbage collection vehicles from reaching certain areas, creating sanitation and waste management challenges. Responding to the issue, the Chief Minister directed the Tura Municipal Board to identify temporary measures to ensure uninterrupted waste collection services. He also said the government would explore the feasibility of deploying four-wheel-drive (4x4) garbage collection vehicles to improve accessibility in difficult terrain and adverse weather conditions.

Residents and community representatives also raised concerns over the condition of a local non-government primary school, highlighting the absence of boundary walls, electricity, water supply and toilet facilities. Demands were also made for swings, slides and playground equipment for children. Sangma assured that the concerns would be examined and necessary support extended.

A local youth organisation sought assistance for developing a basketball court and youth-related infrastructure. The Chief Minister responded positively and assured support in the form of sports materials and musical instruments to encourage youth participation in sports, cultural activities and creative pursuits.

Electricity billing after the installation of smart meters also emerged as a major issue during the meeting. Officials from Meghalaya Energy Corporation Limited clarified that many households earlier had either no meter or conventional billing based on estimates, whereas smart meters now generate bills according to actual electricity consumption. Officials further informed residents that a team would visit the area on Monday to investigate complaints and assured corrective measures if genuine billing discrepancies were found.

Residents also informed the Chief Minister that several families could not afford individual water connections and requested public or shared water supply facilities. Sangma said the matter would be discussed with the concerned departments for possible intervention.

Highlighting the importance of the ongoing economic census, the Chief Minister appealed to citizens to actively participate, saying accurate data is essential for welfare planning, targeted delivery of government benefits and support for economically weaker and Below Poverty Line families.

Reiterating the government’s commitment to people-centric governance and participatory development, Sangma said direct engagement with citizens plays a vital role in ensuring development projects align with real public needs. He added that the government remains committed to transforming Tura into a modern, clean and well-planned urban centre through investments in infrastructure, civic services, beautification initiatives and public spaces.

The MLA Connect programme is part of the broader effort by the government to strengthen responsive governance, improve urban infrastructure and ensure inclusive development in Tura and surrounding areas.