Shillong, June 17: The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has announced that highway projects it is financing in Meghalaya will play a pivotal role in strengthening connectivity and driving economic growth across Northeast India. In a statement issued on Tuesday, JICA highlighted that the projects are expected to boost trade, facilitate cross-border commerce with Bangladesh, and generate new economic opportunities for the region.

The agency is investing ₹1,592 crore under its Northeast Road Network Connectivity Improvement Programme to develop three major corridors in Meghalaya. These include the Dhubri-Phulbari Bridge to Selsella Simbukolgre stretch, the Selsella Simbukolgre to Goeragre corridor on NH-127B, and the Shillong-Dawki Road project.

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari had announced the projects on Monday, underscoring their importance in enhancing interstate connectivity and supporting the Northeast’s integration with regional and international trade routes. JICA noted that the initiative reflects its commitment to supporting India’s infrastructure development and fostering sustainable economic growth in the Northeast.