By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, June 20: In a significant move aimed at reorganising the bustling street vendor scene in Shillong, the Meghalaya government has announced plans to relocate more than 700 legitimate vendors identified within the Shillong Municipal Board.
Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh revealed on Thursday that approximately 200 vendors in the Khyndai Lad area are expected to be relocated by July.
This timeline has been agreed upon by the Shillong Municipal Board, the Urban Affairs department, and the Vendors Committee.
Lyngdoh emphasised that the relocated vendors would benefit from improved facilities, including roofs, washrooms, and water supply. “First of all, the government wants to prioritise the relocation of vendors at Khyndai Lad since this is the entry point for every visitor to Meghalaya,” he stated.
The government’s ultimate goal is to transform Khyndai Lad into a pedestrian area. Following the relocation of vendors in this key area, the remaining hawkers across different parts of the city will also be relocated.
An extensive in-situ survey conducted by the Provisional Town Vending Committee identified over 700 eligible street vendors under the Shillong Municipal Board’s jurisdiction. These vendors are now required to register and report to the chairperson of the Town Vending Committee.
The government’s initiative is expected to streamline street vending in Shillong, providing vendors with better facilities while enhancing the city’s appeal to visitors.