Meghalaya to transition away from traditional auto-rickshaws to electric vehicles

Ahead of the National Games 2027, the Meghalaya government plans to transition away from traditional auto-rickshaws to electric vehicles. The step, announced by the  Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Friday, is in line with the state’s larger effort to make public transportation more sustainable and clean, The Morung Express reported. 

The government will soon begin talks with auto-rickshaw associations to enable the transition, Sangma said at the District Auditorium in Tura during the ongoing Tura Beautification Project program.

Citing Sangma Economic Times, reported,  "I am very keen on making public transportation green before the National Games 2027. For that, I will speak to the auto association about exchanging the present autos for electric autos." Additionally, he noted that willing customers will be offered financial assistance. 

According to Sangma, switching to EVs will reduce emissions and help achieve long-term environmental objectives. Further, he said that the project is a part of a bigger plan to use community-driven projects and infrastructural improvements to transform Tura into a more organised and environmentally friendly metropolis.

As part of the beautification programme, cheques were distributed to 60 localities to support cleanliness and maintenance efforts. The top three performing localities received Rs 1 lakh each, while all other participating areas were awarded Rs 70,000.

The Chief Minister also highlighted the need for more parks, open spaces and recreation zones for children and senior citizens. He urged communities with available land to collaborate with the government to develop such spaces, which would later be maintained locally.

The Chief Minister stressed the need for more parks and open recreational spaces for seniors and children, urging communities with available land to partner with the government. He said these spaces could later be managed locally.