Local heads demand reopening of border haat

SHILLONG: The traditional leaders of Umniuhtmar Elaka have urged the concerned authorities to re-open the border haat at Umniuhtmar to provide support to residents of the Elaka, located along the international border with Bangladesh.
Sordar of Elaka Umniuhtmar, Premier Sing Khongbeh on Monday said, “The border haat at Thangsngi was operational since the time of erstwhile East Pakistan. The market was organised after an agreement with the people of Bangladesh.”
The Sordar added that the border haat wilol be beneficial for the border residents, especially farmers, who will be able to reap benefits from the same.
Meanwhile, officials from the Commerce and Industries Department inspected the Thangsngi market stall at Umniuhtmar on Monday. “They inspected the market and said they will be compiling a report on it. We will soon follow it up,” Khongbeh said.
Asked why the market was non-operational, he said the market was ‘illegal’ and people were not even aware of the timings of the market.
Headman, Rostanwel Mawkhlieng claimed that some BSF officials allow the locals to run the market while others don’t agree to it.
Another headman Amirphor Mawkon said, “What pains me the most is that we have lost the real sight and sound of the border haat which was once a thriving and vibrant place in the olden days.”