Meghalaya High Court on October 19 directed the state government to address the problem of the lack of roads.

In its order, the division bench said the absence of motorable roads impedes healthcare facilities and emergency services delivered to the far-flung areas.

“Access to proper roads in hilly terrain is an adjunct to the right under Article 21 of the Constitution, and the state government must address the problem of the lack of roads in such light. In several parts, there is neither any black-topping nor a trace of a metalled road,” – stated the order.

The bench said several other roads, particularly in the Garo Hills, need attention. It was hearing a PIL filed by AH Hazarika and six others.

Meanwhile, the bench asked the state to file a report on the AMPT road.

The court directed the respondents, particularly the state government, to complete the construction of the concerned road as quickly as possible.