TURA: The Wangala festival committee is contemplating a change of venue that will be bigger than the current one and will have better facilities.
Speaking to The Shillong Times, chairman of the committee Lockslet Momin said the new venue is at Chibraggre, which is around 4 km from Asanang and closer to Tura town.
“The land patta is ready but let us see if we can shift the venue next year,” said Momin, adding that the new venue is about 70 bighas, “much bigger than the current field”.
There are other developments on the anvil. The committee is planning to set up a heritage village and a guest house at Chibraggre.
“Tourists and enthusiasts visiting the Wangala festival can also have a tour of the heritage village,” said Momin.
The committee is also planning to better the infrastructure. For instance, electricity and sound system are two contentious points.
“We have engaged a private party to take care of these two this year. But monetary problem is always there. The expenditure is high. So let us see how things turn out next year,” said Momin, adding that the committee has requested for a generator from State Bank of India.
Net connectivity is another major problem that several media persons are facing. A member of the committee said it will take up the issue with service providers next year.
According to Momin, the Wangala body came to know about it recently and is thinking of how to improve it.
This time, the committee has requested All India Radio (AIR) and Doordarshan for full coverage of the festival. From next year, visitors can expect a giant screen for better visibility.
Media persons and photographers can expect restrictions on movement next year and they may have to source photographs from the official photographers or a special permission for free movement.
“But nothing is final. We will speak to all stakeholders, including the media, before deciding on these issues,” said Momin.
