Local-level concerns, alignment dispute delay border fencing work

By Our Reporter

SHILLONG, May 27: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Wednesday said that local-level concerns and alignment disputes are delaying the completion of the Indo-Bangladesh border fencing in Meghalaya, though over 90% of the work is already finished.

Responding to queries on border security, Sangma noted that Meghalaya has progressed faster than several other border states.

Out of the state’s roughly 440-kilometre international boundary, nearly 400 kilometres have been fenced, with only 40 to 45 kilometres remaining.

The chief minister attributed the delay to “genuine issues” raised by border communities, particularly where the proposed alignment passes several kilometres inside the actual border, cutting through villages and agricultural land.

“In some locations, the fencing line comes two to five kilometres inward, which is a sensitive matter for residents,” Sangma said.

He stated that the government is currently holding discussions with local communities to resolve these grievances while pushing for the project’s completion. Despite the pending stretches, Sangma emphasised that Meghalaya remains significantly ahead of other states in securing its border and expressed hope for a swift resolution.