SHILLONG, SEPT 16: The foundation stone for the Rs 24.27 crore redevelopment of Malki Market was laid by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma at Malki Ground on Wednesday.
East Shillong MLA Dr M Ampareen Lyngdoh was present.
Speaking on the occasion, Sangma said Malki market has received one of the highest allocations among market projects in the state and will benefit Malki and adjoining localities.
The Malki project is part of the Rs 130 crore market infrastructure upgrade undertaken through the State Budget.
The other projects are Laitumkhrah shopping complex (Rs 38 crore), Polo development (Rs 30 crore), Laban market (Rs 14 crore), Iewduh redevelopment (Rs 14 crore), street vendor markets at Dhankheti, Barik, Brightwell Road, Motphran and Polo (Rs 6 crore) and Lumshyiap (Rs 2 crore).
In addition, over Rs 100 crore projects are being implemented in Shillong under Smart City.
The Chief Minister said the thrust on markets is to strengthen economic activity and create better livelihood opportunities.
“We want vending zones to become organised livelihood spaces with toilets and other facilities for vendors, residents and tourists, along with beautification, cleanliness and cultural activities including music under CM-MGMP,” he said.Sangma said work has begun to develop Barik Point into an urban hub while the government is at an advanced stage for a four-lane road from Yojana Bhawan to Anjalee Point, Rhino Point and Civil Hospital.
He said 75 per cent civil work of the new Secretariat at Umsawli is over and shifting is expected next year. Once shifted, the existing Secretariat area will be redeveloped with wider roads, pedestrian spaces and green areas.
“These projects could lead to a major transformation of Malki and adjoining areas over the next 2-3 years,” he said.
He said development must benefit individuals, families and communities at the grassroots and should be inclusive, adding that ecology and economy must move together.
The Chief Minister asked the Urban Affairs department and contractors to ensure quality and timely completion and urged Rangbah Shnongs and local leaders to monitor the work.
He appreciated Dr Ampareen Lyngdoh for her role in the constituency’s development and thanked hawkers and stakeholders for cooperation in vendor relocation.
Sangma also informed that Meghalaya’s Rajya Sabha MP has been invited as special invitee to the Joint Parliamentary Committee examining FCRA regulations. The first meeting is on September 18, where concerns of Meghalaya and the Northeast will be raised.
By Our Reporter
