CM Conrad Sangma leads MLAs on bus tour to showcase new shillong projects

Meghalaya legislators on Friday set aside protocol and opted for a shared bus ride to New Shillong Township , marking the conclusion of the Budget Session with a collective visit to key infrastructure projects being developed in the area.

Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma led the delegation, showcasing the upcoming state secretariat , the new legislative assembly building and other major constructions aimed at strengthening the administrative and institutional framework of the state.

The unusual commute with MLAs leaving behind their official cars and chauffeurs was described as lively and interactive , with legislators exchanging views and receiving briefings on the progress of the projects . Officials said the initiative was meant to encourage a shared understanding of the development vision behind the New Shillong Township.

Addressing the gathering, Sangma said development should be viewed as an inclusive journey and stressed that firsthand exposure would help elected representatives align with the long-term goals for Meghalaya ’s growth.

During the programme, the chief minister also flagged off 15 modern city buses under the brand ‘Ka Bos jong ngi’ (Our Bus) as part of a pilot mobility reform initiative to ease traffic congestion and strengthen structured public transport in Shillong.

Under the trial phase , buses will operate every 20 to 30 minutes on the IIM Shillong-Upper Shillong route via Civil Hospital. The month-long pilot will gather public feedback before expanding services to more routes with higher frequency.

Equipped with GPS tracking, air-conditioning, mobile charging points and digital ticketing, the buses will also be supported by a dedicated mobile application for real-time tracking and online booking.

Observers noted that the decision by legislators to share transport sent a positive message on responsible use of public resources. Many believe such gestures, if adopted more widely by MPs and MLAs, could help build public trust and promote a culture of efficiency and accountability in governance.