SHILLONG :Cabinet Minister and South Shillong legislator Sanbor Shullai on Saturday highlighted the importance of the Shillong-Dawki road project, stating that it has the potential to become a key component of the pan-Asia integrated intermodal transport system.Speaking at the inauguration of a link road, Shullai said the project forms part of the Asian Highway (AH) network and could play a significant role in strengthening regional connectivity across Asia.He stated that once completed, the road will significantly improve connectivity with Bangladesh and contribute to the growth of international trade. The project is also expected to give a major boost to tourism by improving access to popular destinations such as Shillong Peak, Elephant Falls, Dawki, Cherrapunji, and Mawlynnong, known as Asia’s cleanest village.The 71-kilometre Shillong-Dawki corridor is being developed as a two-lane road with paved shoulders, with provisions for four-laning in certain stretches. The total cost of the project stands at ₹2,171 crore, including land acquisition and related expenses.The project has been divided into five packages, of which four were sanctioned in 2020. However, work faced delays due to land acquisition challenges and issues related to public utilities. Shullai noted that these hurdles have now been addressed, allowing construction work on the four packages to resume between October 2022 and May 2023.In terms of progress, Package 1 (Rilbong to Mylliem Marbaniang) is nearing completion with around 90 percent of the work done. Meanwhile, Package 5 (Umsyiem to Tamabil), which includes the iconic Dawki Bridge, is expected to be completed by 2027. Package 3, which involves the Pynursla Bypass, is scheduled to begin in April 2026 and is expected to be completed by 2028.