SHILLONG, Aug 13: The state government has completed the identification process of over 200 hawkers from the Khyndai Lad area and is now in the final stages of relocating them to designated hawking zones. This move aims to transform Khyndai Lad into a pedestrian-only area, free from hawkers, according to Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh.
“We are close to closing this chapter. I had a separate meeting with the Director of Tourism to ensure we have an alternative plan, which is to make Khyndai Lad a hawker-free zone for pedestrian use only,” Lyngdoh stated on Tuesday.
The identification process, which involved verifying the hawkers’ identity, citizenship, and other details, took longer than anticipated. Lyngdoh explained that the process is ongoing, but the government is focused on ensuring that the relocation is done thoughtfully, considering factors such as avoiding overcrowding of vendors in one space and addressing fire safety concerns for those using sources of energy like fire.
When asked about the timeline for the relocation, especially since the initial target date was August 15, Lyngdoh assured that it would not take much longer. “We want to ensure that the hawkers feel involved and understand that we are acting in their best interests,” he said.
The minister also highlighted the government’s efforts to enhance facilities for hawkers, including the establishment of proper vending zones. “The Shillong Municipal Board is actively working on the relocation process, identifying vending zones, and assigning specific spaces to individuals based on their trade and activities,” Lyngdoh noted.
The current focus of the relocation is on the Khyndai Lad area, where around 200 hawkers operate. The Urban Affairs Department is finalising the details of the relocation, which will be submitted to Lyngdoh once completed, as the initiative is a joint venture between the Urban Affairs and Tourism departments.
“Numerous meetings have been held between the Department of Urban Affairs and Tourism for identification, and now only the relocation phase remains,” Lyngdoh concluded.
