Christmas fervour grips city

SHILLONG, Dec 20: Notwithstanding the tumultuous days of the year 2022, Shillongites have soaked themselves in the fervour of Christmas which seems to have gripped the city of late. The cityscape is currently bathing in lights and other goodness awaiting the arrival of the festival, which is a few days away.
Several churches, commercial buildings and streets in Shillong are decorated depicting the festive mood in the state capital. Many commercial establishments are also illuminated.
Two eminent commercial centres of Meghalaya — Police Bazar and Iewduh – have been witnessing a huge rush of people, thronging the markets in their preparation for Christmas.
A Shillong-based businessman said that their business is faring well this year, even as he hoped that sales would increase further in the next 3-4 days.
But with more people comes more traffic jams. In view of the high footfall at the markets, the stretch of road from IGP till Motphran is strewn with vehicles.
It is curious that the government has not yet decked up Khyndai Lad. Moreover, there are no signs yet of any major carols being organised in the city although pre-Christmas celebrations are under way in different places.
There is also notable tourist presence this year, who are here to enjoy the festive season too.
Corroborating this, a hotelier from Shillong said there is improvement in the flow of tourists, but he added that hotels are not yet house-full due to the recent disturbances.
However, there are hopes that more tourists will arrive before Christmas.