SHILLONG/TURA:
Comprehensive security measures have been put in place in Tura and Shillong in anticipation of the upcoming visit of President Droupadi Murmu on January 15 and 16.
The President’s itinerary commences in Tura, the district headquarters of West Garo Hills District, where she will inaugurate the Meghalaya Games on January 15. The Games are scheduled to run until January 20, featuring over 3,000 athletes competing in 22 disciplines. The state government has allocated a budget exceeding Rs 23 crore for the successful execution of the Games.
Upon arrival in Shillong, the President is scheduled to lay the foundation stone for the Shillong Ropeway project on January 16.
To enhance security during the President’s visit, a senior police officer stated on Friday, “We have sought for nine additional companies (of paramilitary forces) in the state capital to beef up security during the visit of the President of India.”
Preparations for the President’s inaugural visit have been underway with a series of meetings held to ensure a smooth and organised experience.
In the previous year, the groundbreaking ceremony for the Shillong Peak ropeway project took place in the presence of Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma.
This ropeway initiative, spanning 1.34 hectares of land, is estimated to cost Rs 138.00 crores. The project includes the Lower Terminal Point (LTP), located in the existing Forest Nursery Rait Laban area, covering 11146.96 sq. m at an altitude of 838 m above MSL. The LTP will house essential facilities such as the Station Building, Concourse, Maintenance Room, Ticket Room cum Office, Store Room, Security Room, Waiting Area, Public Convenience, and Parking Area.