SHILLONG, AUG 12: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Wednesday said the state’s vendor relocation effort is aimed at finding a “win-win” between protecting livelihoods and reclaiming public spaces.
After inspecting the new Polo Vendors’ Market, Sangma acknowledged that the shift would bring challenges but was necessary for Shillong.
“Our intention is to protect livelihoods to the maximum extent possible. But we also see that in some locations it is unorganized. Vendors on footpaths block the way for the public and create disruption in the city,” he said.
“There will never be a perfect solution. There will always be challenges and compromises. The objective is to find the best mix so we can create a win-win solution,” Sangma added.
He thanked vendors who have already moved and appealed to those in Laitumkhrah and Jail Road to cooperate.
“We are not here to take away anyone’s livelihood. We understand the challenges. But we must also maintain public order and keep pavements clear so people do not face inconvenience,” he said.
The CM cited court directives as a key reason for the drive.
“We have challenges because the court has also given strict instructions. We have to comply with that too. In all of this, we are doing our best to balance things out,” he said.
Pointing to visible changes, Sangma said, “A lot of streets have been cleared. Pavements that were blocked earlier have been opened up. This has been possible because hawkers were supportive and officers worked hard.”
During the visit, he was briefed by Shillong Municipal Board officials and the Town Vending Committee on operations at the 132-stall market. 48 vendors are from Polo and 84 from Jail Road. 72 have taken possession so far.
Sangma also handed over cheques under the Chief Minister’s Urban Livelihood Grant. Vendors with a valid Certificate of Vending get Rs 20,000 — Rs 10,000 upfront and Rs 2,000 per month for five months. 65 CoVs have been issued for the SBI zone and 106 for the Matri Mandir zone.
Set up on a 2,270 sqm site with a 620 sqm vending area, the Polo Market has toilets, LED lights in each stall and 8 halogen lamps. It houses vendors selling vegetables, fruits, garments, fast food, fish, chicken and pan.
The relocation is being done under the Meghalaya Street Vendors Scheme, 2023, by the Urban Affairs Department and East Khasi Hills administration, following similar exercises in Khyndailad and Civil Hospital.
“We are working towards a more inclusive and supportive society. We hope to extend similar support to other areas to ease traffic, improve sanitation and create safer commercial spaces,” Sangma said.
By Our Reporter
