The MoRTH Ministry of Road Transport & Highways has awarded a tender worth ₹366.46 crore for the widening and improvement of National Highway 127B in Meghalaya, funded under JICA ODA Loan Phase-VII and expected to be completed within 24 months. In a move to boost road infrastructure and connectivity in the North Eastern region, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has floated a tender worth ₹366.46 crore for the widening and upgradation of NH-127B in Meghalaya. The project is a strategic push under the Bharatmala Pariyojana, focused on enhancing mobility in hilly and border regions.
Project Overview
The tender covers the widening of the existing road to a 2-lane with paved shoulders from Tura to Delu in Meghalaya’s West Garo Hills district. This section of NH-127B is crucial for regional transport, trade, and defence connectivity as it links the border town of Delu to larger urban hubs. Under the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) mode, the scope of work includes geometric improvement, strengthening of pavement, construction of retaining walls, drainage safety infrastructure like crash barriers signage. (Highway Projects)
Significance for Meghalaya’s Infrastructure
The development of NH-127B is vital for improving intra-state and inter-state connectivity in Meghalaya. The state, known for its difficult terrain and limited road access, has long required quality infrastructure to reduce travel time, improve safety, and promote economic integration with the rest of the country. Once completed, this road will also serve as an alternate route for movement towards Bangladesh, easing pressure on other national corridors in the region. (Road Development Projects)
Boost to Economic and Social Development
Widening of NH-127B is expected to significantly benefit local farmers, traders, and daily commuters by improving market access and lowering transportation costs. The project will also enhance access to essential services such as healthcare and education in remote villages. Furthermore, improved road infrastructure is anticipated to boost tourism in Garo Hills, especially attractions like Knorek Biosphere Reserve and Pela Falls, which remain relatively unexplored due to poor road connectivity.
Environmental Considerations
Given Meghalaya’s ecological sensitivity, the project will be executed with environmental safeguards, including proper drainage systems, erosion control, and compensatory afforestation. The tender document reportedly includes provisions for ESG compliance and green construction methods. This reflects MoRTH’s increasing focus on sustainable infrastructure, aligned with India’s national climate and environmental goals. This tender is part of MoRTH’s larger commitment to transform the Northeast road network, with over ₹1.5 lakh crore allocated for road projects across Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, and other states. NH-127B’s development is aligned with the strategic vision to improve border-area infrastructure, facilitate smoother interstate commerce, and boost regional employment through construction activities.
Conclusion
The ₹366.46 crore tender for widening NH-127B is a step forward in integrating Meghalaya into India’s broader highway network. It promises safer roads, better mobility, and greater opportunities for economic development in a region that has long struggled with poor connectivity. With MoRTH’s continued investments, Meghalaya is poised to witness a significant infrastructure transformation. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has invited bids for a ₹366.46 crore project to widen and upgrade National Highway 127B (NH-127B) in West Garo Hills district of Meghalaya. The tender, floated under the EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) mode, is part of India’s.
q1. What is the purpose of the NH-127B widening project in Meghalaya?
To improve road connectivity, reduce travel time, and enhance trade and transport along the Tura–Delu section in West Garo Hills.
q2. What is the estimated cost of the NH-127B project?
The project is estimated to cost ₹366.46 crore under the EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) mode.
q3. Which stretch of NH-127B will be widened?
The stretch between Tura and Delu in West Garo Hills district of Meghalaya will be widened to 2-lane standards with paved shoulders.
q4. How will the project benefit Meghalaya?
It will boost regional trade, improve access to remote areas, support tourism, and create local employment opportunities.
q5. Who is implementing the NH-127B project?
The project is being implemented by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) as part of its infrastructure development plans for the Northeast.
