SHILLONG: The scenic but much abused Shillong golf course is poised for a major facelift with the state government planning to make it on a par with international standards ahead of the National Games which has golf as one of the disciplines.
The National games are scheduled for 2022.
Speaking to media persons, Cabinet Minister and golfer from Meghalaya AL Hek regretted that the golf course, which was inherited from the Britishers, has been abused for long and is no longer worthy of the sport.
Terming it as unplayable, he stated that he is now heading two committees which have been constituted by the government for improving and developing the golf course besides preparing for the golf discipline in the Games.
He said that the government has massive plans to develop the golf course and its surrounding areas to make it at par with international standard.
He said that a meeting was held recently and plans are being made on how to divert the crisscrossing of the roads in the vicinity of the course, adding that the government is also contemplating to construct subways in the area.
) Hek also said that the government will take everyone including the Rangbah Shnong, school and residents of the area into confidence to ensure that the plan for the development of the course does not run into hurdles.
Right now, there is no restriction on anyone entering the golf course and people are seen playing and picnicking on the greens. Besides, the place has also turned into a favourite rendezvous for couples.
Shillong golf course prides in being one of the oldest, largest and finest natural golf circuits across the world. Owing to its greenery and scenic beauty, the United States Golf Association and Museum has given it the title of ‘Gleneagle of the East’.
In the year 1898, it was established as a 9-hole golf course at an altitude of 5200 feet. Captain Jackson and CK Rhodes converted it to an 18-hole course in 1924, and since then, it has been a favourite haunt of golf aficionados.
