SHILLONG, NOV 20: The vision to transform Shillong’s Khyndailad area into a pedestrian‑friendly hub is being calibrated around feedback from local residents and the pending relocation of the state Assembly to Mawdiangdiang, Deputy Chief Minister incharge Urban Affairs Sniawbhalang Dhar said Thursday.
Speaking to the press, Dhar emphasized that while a Detailed Project Report (DPR) is nearing completion, the government is holding off on full implementation until the Assembly vacates its current premises. “Not pending but we are in the process of beautifying it. You know very well even the old Assembly is yet to shift to the new location. As soon as we shift it, we will go for the full beautification of that area,” he explained.
The DPR outlines the dismantling of the existing Assembly building to make way for walkways, footpaths, flower pots, and upgraded tiling.
“The DPR has been prepared and it is a very nice one… The old Assembly will be dismantled as per plan, which is however yet to be finalised, to make nice walkways and footpaths – everything is in the DPR,” Dhar added.
Resident concerns have been taken into account, with the government agreeing to keep roads open during construction. “Some of the residents requested us that if we close the road we may face problem. We are discussing and will fix timing after both government and residents agree,” Dhar noted.
In a separate update, Dhar said the MTC Shopping Mall is 85‑88 % complete and is slated for completion next year. “The targeted date of completion should be by next year. Let us wait till the actual date comes before saying anything,” he remarked.
By Our Reporter
