Tue Aug 05 06:14:12 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the provided text followed by a news article based on it:

**Summary:**

The Meghalaya government has begun the land acquisition process for a ₹22,864-crore, four-lane greenfield highway project connecting Umiam Lake near Shillong to Silchar in Assam. The highway, to be constructed by NHIDCL, will pass through the Ri-Bhoi district of Meghalaya. Authorities are warning villagers in the designated area against new constructions without permission, as these will not be compensated during land acquisition. The 166.80-km corridor, with the majority of its length in Meghalaya, aims to boost connectivity and economic development in the region.

**News Article:**

**Meghalaya Begins Land Acquisition for Shillong-Silchar Highway**

**Shillong, August 5, 2025** – The Meghalaya government has officially commenced the land acquisition process for the ambitious ₹22,864-crore greenfield highway project linking Umiam Lake, near Shillong, to Silchar in Assam. The four-lane corridor is poised to significantly improve connectivity and drive economic growth in the region.

The National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) will undertake the construction of the 166.80-km highway. The route will traverse through the Ri-Bhoi district of Meghalaya, with 144.80 km falling within Meghalaya and the remaining 22 km in Assam.

Ri-Bhoi’s Deputy Commissioner, Abhilash Baranwal, has issued a notification urging villagers within the designated corridor to refrain from initiating any new construction or development without prior authorization. The notification explicitly states that any unauthorized structures built after the announcement will not be eligible for compensation during land acquisition. Seventeen villages, including Pyllun, Umeit, and Umroi Labansaro, have been identified for land acquisition.

The highway will originate at Mawlyngkhung, near Shillong, and terminate at Panchgram, near Silchar. Authorities are confident that the improved infrastructure will facilitate smoother transportation, boost trade, and ultimately contribute to the overall prosperity of the region. The project is expected to be a significant boon for both Meghalaya and Assam.

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