Rainy season done; road repairs?
Editor,
The deplorable condition of roads in Shillong has been spoken about for a long time now. Despite promises made by the Government that repair work would commence after the rainy season, there has been no indication of any progress or even the initiation of repair work long after the rains have subsided now. This becomes especially problematic as some of these roads are near schools — and even government offices — which become the cause of frustration and add to the ever-increasing problem of congestion.
For a state which relies on tourism, having proper roads for smooth commuting is the least one can ask for. The potholes, cracks, and uneven surfaces have turned daily commute into a nightmare. This not only results in damage to vehicles but also poses significant safety risks to pedestrians and motorists alike.
While the government marketed before the 2023 elections that it has built more roads in 5 years than any government has in 18 years, it needs to examine with utmost seriousness the kind and quality of roads that it has built.
As of now, delaying repairs any further not only worsens the state of our roads but also reflects poorly on the Government’s commitment to its citizens. The people deserve to know when they can expect to see tangible improvements in the road conditions.
Yours etc.,
Patrick Kurbah,
Via Email
Traffic in Shillong
Editor,
The traffic situation in the city of Shillong is getting worse by the day and it is very disappointing to see that there seems to be no proactive action taken by the concerned authorities. There are many things that can be done to help ease traffic congestion. The problem is not only because of the increased number of vehicles or the narrow roads that exist in Shillong today. The problem is compounded with the lack of discipline among drivers. I would like to submit here in your esteemed paper my suggestions as a concerned citizen of Shillong and undoubtedly if implemented will go a long way to help ease the turmoil of traffic we encounter every day, which results in wastage of our valuable time and energy. One cannot imagine the loss of precious time which is wasted just sitting in the car especially in a fast-paced world of today. Waste of time is a waste of life.
Firstly, we see that if there is a blockade on one side of the road, the other side will eventually also be affected. Overtaking should be strictly prohibited especially when there is a blockade. Besides, we see that in Shillong people do not follow their own lane be it the four or the two wheelers. This crossing from one lane to the other side should not be allowed because it also affects the vehicles coming from opposite direction and more so, because of this encroachment, it endangers the pedestrian also since the vehicles in order to avoid collision, will have to go to the corners and footpaths.
Secondly, drivers here in Shillong do not follow traffic rules and are also selfish, arrogant and indisciplined. They will stop the car anywhere, park everywhere, take a U-turn anywhere, taking dangerous and abrupt overtaking and not allowing other vehicles to proceed in places where there are intersections and uphill. So, drivers need to be sensitized and educated on ethics for traffic safety and comfort. Thirdly, heavy and overloaded vehicles should not be allowed to ply in the city during the day. Many times we see JCB’S, heavy vehicles moving at a snail pace thus creating traffic obstruction everywhere.
The public transport system needs to be revamped in terms of capacity in buses and taxis, interconnectivity in different locations, frequency and timing need to be structured. Buses, taxis two wheelers should be passenger friendly. For example the entrance to the bus should be from the front and exit from behind so as to avoid overcrowding. Also tokens or coupons can be introduced. Bus and taxi Stops should be earmarked and designated properly so that these buses and taxis will not stop anywhere. As of today these buses and taxis stop even in the middle of the road. These are some of the reasons that lead to traffic congestion and if traffic rules are strictly adhered to by one and all, it will bring a lot of changes in the traffic scenario.
Finally, flyovers are much needed especially in many junctions where they are feasible. This is possible if there is a will. We need to look at our neighbouring state Assam, where there are no dearth of flyovers and rapid development in terms of road infrastructure etc. If we want to see change then some concrete steps need to be taken. As the saying goes “if you really want to do something, you’ll find a way, if you don’t, you’ll find an excuse”
Yours etc.,
N.Lyngdoh,
Via email
Umiam bridge endangered
Editor,
The Umiam Bridge is indeed a cause of concern for no one knows when it will give up and collapse. This is a reality that is known to all – the government and the general public alike. Yet this lackadaisical attitude towards such a serious matter is very troubling considering that this bridge is the lifeline between Shillong and Guwahati. Albert Thyrniang’s write-up, “What if Umiam bridge collapses,” describes the catastrophe that may befall people who need to use this bridge on a regular basis. It gives one a chill to the bones to even imagine the catastrophe as you and I will continue to use this bridge because we have no other alternative. What is bewildering is the manner in which the Government is handling this matter. Everybody knows that the bridge has outlived its longevity and the Government owes it to the people and the State to do something. Or do we have to wait for the bridge to give up and eventually cause death and cut us off from the rest of the country? This is no time to slumber. Wake up before it is too late!
Yours etc.,
Jenniefer Dkhar,
Via email
Concerns regarding ‘Jaintia’s Got Talent’ voting system
Editor,
I wish to express my deep concern about a recent experience I had with the “Jaintia’s Got Talent” show, organized by Chirup u Kreh Lang I Society. This event is meant to showcase and celebrate the talent of our community members, but a disconcerting aspect of the show came to my attention while I was out shopping.
While at a local market, I encountered a young participant selling what they referred to as “coupons” for votes. Each coupon, priced at Rs 10, was presented as a means to cast a vote for the competing talent. What surprised me was that the more coupons these young participants sold, the more votes they received, thus influencing the outcome of the talent competition.
It appears that the entire revenue generated from the sale of these coupons goes directly to the organizers. This set-up essentially transforms a talent show, which should be primarily based on the participants’ skills and abilities, into a business endeavour for the organizers, with the participants compelled to sell coupons to increase their chances of winning.
I believe that such a practice undermines the very essence of a talent show and shifts the focus away from the true talent and abilities of the participants. It raises ethical concerns about fairness and transparency in the competition.
I urge the Chirup u Kreh Lang I Society to reconsider this system and return to a more traditional, unbiased judging process that truly reflects the participants’ skills and hard work. Talent should shine on its own merit and the success of such an event should be based on talent, not the number of coupons sold.
Yours etc.,
Dariti Passah,
Jowai