SHILLONG: The state government has refused to budge from its demand for a revised funding pattern in implementing the Centre’s Smart Cities Mission.
Urban Affairs Minister Ronnie V Lyngdoh said the government’s stand “is very clear” and it cannot agree to the 50:50 funding as prescribed by the Centre.
“We have requested the Centre for a 90:10 funding pattern as we are a small state with limited resources,” he said.
The state government had earlier taken up the matter with the then Union Minister for Urban Development Venkaiah Naidu.
“Even the chief minister has written to the Centre on the matter,” Lyngdoh said.
As per the project, a minimum of Rs 1,500 crore is estimated to improve sewerage system, drainage and waste management, among others.
The dream of making Shillong a smart city may or may not come true but the state government is prioritising the idea of making it a livable city.
“We want to construct a shopping mall with enough space where people can sit and relax apart from shopping,” Lyngdoh added.
The department has invited Expression of Interest for the project and many bidders have responded. “We will choose the best party from among the bidders,” he said.
