Shullai urges BJP leaders to avoid public criticism of MDA
SHILLONG, Aug 21: BJP MLA and chairman of Meghalaya Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC), Sanbor Shullai, has urged party leaders to carefully weigh the consequences before speaking out against the Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA), in which the BJP is a coalition partner. In a statement issued on Thursday, Shullai said that if there is any discontentment, the matter should be discussed with the government rather than going public. He added that the BJP, being part of the government, also owes its responsibilities towards the administration. Shullai further stated that the party has a high chance of winning several potential seats and that the prime focus should be on increasing its seat share in the next election. Earlier, Shullai heaped praises on the MDA government for introducing several developmental initiatives in tourism promotion, stating that Shillong is now one of the most searched and looked-up destinations. “The developmental projects under the Tourism Department will start to bear us fruits of our hard work within the next few years,” he said, adding that Meghalaya, which once did not have any five-star hotels, is now witnessing such initiatives.
Wahumkhrah Riverfront Project not to affect Polo immersion ghat
SHILLONG, Aug 21: The Immersion Ghat at Polo, where all idols are immersed during puja celebrations, will not be affected by the ongoing Wahumkhrah Riverfront Project. The Central Puja Committee (CPC) had sought all drawings of the proposed project, and joint inspections were carried out on three occasions. CPC President Naba Bhattacharjee, while welcoming the project, confirmed that the Immersion Ghat will remain intact. “In fact, the project will further improve the Immersion Ghat, and the area will be much better now,” he said. Work on the Wahumkhrah Riverfront Project is currently underway, with construction activity taking place in the Immersion Ghat area. The site will be handed over to the CPC by September 10. Bhattacharjee admitted that this year’s immersion might see some inconveniences due to ongoing work, but assured that “everything will fall in place, and from next year there will be no issues.” He further clarified that the land belongs to the State Government, with the CPC serving only as its custodian. Under the project, a park and walkway will be developed on the opposite bank of the river. The Shillong Municipal Board has assured that there will be no obstruction to the rituals performed at the site. It was also informed that all Durga Puja Committees are cooperating to ensure early completion of the project for the benefit of all. The first phase of the Wahumkhrah Riverfront Development Project, being constructed at a cost of Rs 39 crore, is expected to be completed within 10 to 12 months. The project has been awarded to Ganpati Associates and Vikas Sarlalka of Shillong through a joint venture. Key features of Phase 1 include river cleaning, creation of green spaces, pedestrian promenades, and sports facilities. The plan also envisions a connecting bridge, open and covered shops, an amphitheatre, kiosks, and public toilets. Phase 2 will focus on the development of shops, eateries, parking spaces, hostel accommodations, and other facilities. The Wah Umkhrah, which flows through Shillong, has historically been vital to the city’s residents, serving as a source of livelihood, sustenance, and transportation. However, rapid urbanisation has led to pollution, neglect, and ecological degradation, diminishing its significance to the community. To address these challenges, a comprehensive riverfront redevelopment plan was introduced, with the aim of revitalising the river and restoring its importance to the people of Shillong.