By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Nov 20: Tourism Minister Timothy D Shira has asserted that the recently held Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival was a successful event, drawing a large number of visitors and tourists.
The Minister, however, said that he does not yet have the exact figures of total attendance.
Responding to criticism over hosting the event in the heart of the city—which led to traffic congestion and noise pollution—Shira informed that a permanent site outside Shillong is currently under construction.
“For this year only, the festival was held in Shillong as we have a good venue like the JN Stadium,” he said.
Speaking about the Megong Festival, the Minister said that a separate permanent site is being developed between Williamnagar and Jengal. “This will be our permanent site to host the event,” he said, adding that there are proposals to bring some international artists for future editions.
Meanwhile, former Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh also remarked that the Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival was a resounding success, noting that 65 percent of the attendees came from outside the state.
“It is a pointer to the growing popularity of Meghalaya, and we have been able to provide a platform for local bands and do justice to local artists,” he said, adding that traffic congestion is not limited to festival days alone.
