SHILLONG: The cold storage facility to preserve fruits and vegetables at Mawlai Mawiong has remained non-functional for several years due to the neglect of the Agriculture Department and apathy of farmers.
The facility was inaugurated by former chief minister EK Mawlong in 2001 but after a trial run, this was not utilised leading to wastage of money.
During a visit to the area, it was noticed that the building meant for the cold storage facility has been converted into a warehouse and it is being used to store cartons of biscuits and packets of noodles, among other things. The building is currently used by private traders.
According to an official, the intention was to store perishable items in the cold storage but the purpose was defeated after the facility was left unused for a long time. According to the Agriculture Department, the 1,000-MT cold storage facility at Mawiong had no takers but sources said the government did not follow up in entrusting private parties to operate the facility.
Sources said at a time when the government is engaged in creating farmers’ portal and taking other initiatives, the practical aspect of providing a storage facility for farmers is yet to be looked into.
