Editor,
Apropos the news item “BDO ‘punished for clearing up mess’ (ST 26th November, 2011), I was shocked and dismayed that such a committed and sagacious officer would be unjustifiably transferred. I deeply condemn such ill-judged decision. It is just a clear indication of ostentatious political power and corrupt governance. I humbly request the various NGO’s at Mawryngkneng village to take a firm stand against the BDO’s illegal transfer and to reinstate him as Block Development Officer of Mawryngkneng. The residents of Mawryngkneng have already witnessed and had enough of constant appointment of new BDOs which seems to have become an incessant phenomenon. It is high time for the people of the state of Meghalaya to take the bull by its horns and address any related issues boldly and publicly.
Yours etc.,
L. KHARPURI
Shillong – 793012
Good old days
Editor,
It was in the late seventies and early eighties during my primary school days, our family would go down to our native place in Assam during the long winter break in Shillong. I can still remember while traveling in MTC buses that after crossing Mawlai it was difficult to spot another vehicle in between till we reached Umsning (Nayabunglow) and then probably we shall see few more in Nongpoh. Today after thirty years the vehicle which I travel would be escorted by numerous others on left, right, front and rear throughout this road in a never ending traffic jam. It is really difficult to decide whether this is development or anarchy. Whether we like it or not, this is the consequence of a totally ineffective population control policy during these last three decades which has resulted in drastic rise in vehicle numbers.
Yours etc.
Diganta Pathak
Shillong-2
PB in a mess
Editor,
Downtown Shillong or Shillong – 1 which is the heart of the city has almost all the important offices and banks located in and around it starting right from Barik Point. This is of course acceptable as it is more convenient for the office goers to attend to their duties punctually and regularly. However, as we move on to P.B. (as we affectionately call Police Bazaar) if you just whistle the two letters from a distance the taxi guy is sure to recognise the signal .He will deliver you there and sure enough his cab will be loaded before you could even turn your back to him. Brisk business just like the shops ,restaurants, hotels of different stars in every nook and corner. And then there are pharmacies, travel agents, clinics etc., Then come the roadside hawkers and vendors; they too think they have a right to some space to display their goods.
Overall the atmosphere is really suffocating. The congestion, the dirt , the smell has reached a saturation point. It is really sad this rapid degeneration of PB. My point here is, why have a 5-star hotel project costing over Rs 100 crores amidst this dirt, filth and congestion with more offices to be located in and near P.B. This is so uncool. A 5- Star hotel would feel more like a 5 star plus if it is located in a cleaner site away from the congestion with some scenic beauty around. It’s time the government starts thinking outside the box .
Yours etc.,
ML Kharmawphlang.
Shillong -4