By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, May 19: Shillong’s historic Iewduh market will undergo a beautification and infrastructure overhaul at a cost of Rs 31 crore, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said on Monday while announcing a comprehensive plan for the same.
Accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh, senior government officials and representatives of the Hima Mylliem, the chief minister conducted an inspection of the market. He acknowledged the pressing need for improvement in its infrastructure, drainage system, and accessibility.
“Thank God for the rains. We actually got to see the real difficulties of the people here,” Sangma said during his visit to the market amid a heavy downpour.
The foundation stone for the Iewduh development project was laid in March 2024. The government has now decided to scale up efforts to revamp Iewduh which is one of the oldest and largest traditional markets of the Northeast.
“Close to one lakh people depend directly or indirectly on Iewduh for their livelihood. It is not just an economic hub but also a part of our cultural and social fabric. Therefore, it is crucial that we preserve and improve it,” the chief minister told reporters.
While repair works are underway with an initial sanction of Rs 6 crore for renovating internal footpaths with natural stone, Sangma announced an additional Rs 15 crore for the second phase of the project. This will include construction of new footpaths and proper drainage systems, and relocation of obstructive water pipes to ease congestion.
The Rs 21 crore sanctioned by the state government is in addition to Rs 10 crore released by the North Eastern Council.
“These works need to be taken up on a large scale. We are careful about avoiding overlapping with the KHADC’s own beautification plans,” he said, clarifying that the master plan will align with the market’s traditional and modern needs.
Pointing to water-logging and overflow issues exacerbated by the rains, Sangma said, “It helped us see the ground realities—clogged drains, narrow lanes, and the challenges vendors and shoppers face every day.” He noted that solving these problems will be central to the second phase of the project.
Acknowledging the spatial constraints in the market, Sangma said expansion of narrow lanes may not be immediately possible due to the presence of shops, but the government is working to optimise the existing space.
“If the pipes are shifted underground and proper drainage is created, the existing footpaths will be broadened, improving usability without displacing shopkeepers,” he said.
During the visit, he engaged with local vendors, shopkeepers, farmers, and traditional heads for suggestions and feedback. “We got very good suggestions and have taken note of them. We want to work hand-in-hand with the Hima Mylliem and the local community,” he assured.
Tendering for the second phase is expected to begin in the coming months although Sangma cautioned that the monsoon may slightly delay the pace of execution.
“This is just the beginning. Our ultimate aim is to develop a full-fledged master plan that not only addresses basic infrastructure but also enhances the aesthetic and cultural value of Iewduh,” he added.
Interestingly, no member from the KHADC was present there.
CM’s visit brings cheers to sellers, buyers
Vendors and shopkeepers at Iewduh were visibly elated as the chief minister, along with his ministerial colleagues and officials, made their way through the busy and congested lanes of the market — a rare sight that drew the attention of nearly everyone present.
For many, it was the first time they had seen such a high-profile delegation walk the market, observing conditions first-hand.
“Our joys know no bounds. We have never seen so many big leaders come here and actually, walk through the paths we take every day. It felt like someone is finally taking note,” said a vegetable vendor.
Vendors used the opportunity to voice long-standing grievances. One of the most common suggestions they made to the chief minister was the need for proper lighting inside the market. Many pointed out that some sections of Iewduh remain dark. Sangma took immediate note and assured that lighting would be included in the improvement plans.
Drainage was another issue that came up during interactions. “Water stagnates during the rains and overflows into the walkways. We told the chief minister that better drainage is urgently needed,” said a poultry seller.
Several vendors thanked the government for finally paying attention to the everyday problems faced by those who depend on Iewduh for their livelihood.
“At least someone came and listened,” another vendor, who runs a snacks stall, said, adding, “We’re not asking for much, just basic things like clean walkways, lights, and proper drainage.”