India’s longest Cantilever Skywalk coming to Meghalaya: Rs 51.7 Cr project unveiled at Mawkdok

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJune 24, 2025

In a bold step to transform Meghalaya’s tourism landscape, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Monday unveiled the design of a Rs 51.7-crore Cantilever Skywalk at Mawkdok in East Khasi Hills. Touted to be one of the longest cantilever bridges in India and the first of its kind in the Northeast, the project promises to reshape the region’s tourism potential—offering visitors a unique opportunity to walk above the cliffs and take in breathtaking views once visible only from the roadside.

“This is a Rs 51.7-crore project—the first skywalk in Meghalaya—where visitors can experience the entire area from a stunning height. Earlier, people would just stop along the roadside. Now, they can walk out and enjoy a complete view,” said the Chief Minister during the CM Connect programme held under the Laitkroh C&RD Block.

The structure will be around 40 metres long with a cantilever width of about 7 metres, making it one of the longest cantilever bridges in the country, according to the Chief Minister. He noted that the project includes not just the Skywalk, but also cafeterias, shops to be operated by locals, a parking area, and other tourist-friendly amenities.

“Many activities will take place here. This isn’t just a project for one village—it will be a very, very big development for the entire area,” Conrad said, calling it a “major game-changer” for the region’s tourism and economy.

He further informed that tendering has been completed and the work allotted, with mobilisation expected within the next one or two months, depending on the monsoon. “We expect to complete this soon,” he added.

As part of his grassroots governance initiative, the CM Connect event saw widespread participation from villagers who raised concerns about road connectivity, electricity, water supply, healthcare, housing, and the implementation of welfare schemes.

“At CM Connect, we talk less and listen more. It’s not about finding fault—it’s about listening, reflecting, and acting. Even small interventions, when guided by people’s voices, can bring real change,” the CM said.

In a significant move to promote local enterprise, all food and logistics for the programme were handled by local Self-Help Groups (SHGs)—a model the Chief Minister said will be adopted in future block-level events.

“This is not just an outreach programme; it’s an opportunity to strengthen grassroots enterprise. Every rupee spent should go back into the local economy,” he said, urging officials to partner with SHGs and village institutions for supplies and services.

He also reminded the public to link their Aadhaar numbers to government welfare schemes before the June 30 deadline to ensure continued access to benefits under PMAY, NFSA, MHIS, and job cards.

“No one should be left behind. These schemes reflect our intent to serve better by listening better,” he said.

The Chief Minister also thanked local MLAs Gavin Miguel Mylliem and Matthew Beyond Kurbah for their active support and presence at the programme.

He extended his gratitude to local MLAs Gavin Miguel Mylliem and Matthew Beyond Kurbah for their active involvement and support in the event.