By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Aug 13: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Wednesday stated that the state government plans to invest an additional Rs 25 crore for the improvement of the Iewduh market, in addition to the Rs 14 crore sanctioned by the North Eastern Council (NEC).
Speaking at the foundation-laying ceremony for Phase Two of the NEC-funded project, the Chief Minister noted that works worth around Rs 5 crore have been initiated in the first phase. He revealed that the detailed project report (DPR) for Phase Three, estimated at Rs 20 crore, is currently being prepared.
The NEC-funded works include upgrading infrastructure and public amenities in Iewduh, one of the oldest and largest traditional markets in the Northeast.
Recalling his childhood visits to the market, Sangma expressed disappointment that little has changed in over three decades.
“This lack of development in such an important economic centre does not match the growth story of our state and our nation. All our infrastructure projects and our vision of a $10 billion economy will mean nothing if we cannot improve the livelihoods of ordinary citizens,” he said.
He urged shopkeepers and vendors to take ownership of the market’s upkeep, stressing that cleanliness was key to making Iewduh “one of the most beautiful markets in not just Shillong, but the entire Northeast.”
The project’s first foundation stone was laid in March 2024. Initial works, estimated at Rs 6 crore, include renovating internal footpaths with natural stone.
During a visit in May, Sangma had announced Rs 15 crore for Phase Two to build new footpaths, install a proper drainage network, and relocate obstructive water pipelines to ease congestion.
He also spoke about the CM Urban Livelihood Grant, which he said was conceived during his visit to Iewduh in May. Under the scheme, registered vendors receive a one-time grant of Rs 10,000 to support their livelihoods through material purchases, infrastructure upgrades, or other improvements.
“This scheme is not just about financial aid; it’s about the dignity of labour. It’s the government’s way of saying that your work is important, and we are here to support you,” he said, adding that the initiative will be expanded to other urban markets across the state.
He emphasised that vendors must register with the Hima Mylliem to ensure a proper database and structured implementation of the scheme.
The event was attended by Deputy Chief Ministers Prestone Tynsong and Sniawbhalang Dhar, Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh, and the Syiem, along with members of Hima Mylliem.
KHADC’s exclusion raises questions
The KHADC’s exclusion from the foundation stone laying ceremony has raised concerns about the council’s role in managing traditional markets.
KHADC Chief Executive Member Shemborlang Rynjah confirmed being unaware of the event but declined to comment further on the state government’s move.
The KHADC is currently led by the Voice of the People Party (VPP), while the state government is under the NPP-led Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA).
Incidentally, Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong urged the KHADC and other agencies to do more to support local vendors at Iewduh, questioning why the KHADC is not taking initiatives similar to those undertaken by the state government.
