By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Nov 21: The ambitious plan to transform Khyndai Lad into a dedicated music boulevard—Lynti Sur Bathiang—has remained largely stagnant for months despite the removal of hawkers from the area.
However, following sustained media scrutiny, some preliminary work was finally visible on Friday evening. Tiles were found removed from parts of the stretch, and minor drainage work was under way at specific points.
Former Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh, who first proposed converting the stretch into a pedestrian-friendly music zone after relocating roadside vendors, reiterated the intent behind the initiative.
“It is true that we had committed on August 14 that once the area becomes fully pedestrianised, it would be converted into a music zone. That is why it was named Lynti Sur Bathiang,” Lyngdoh said. Urban Affairs Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar, meanwhile, recently clarified that the beautification project hinges on the dismantling of the old Assembly building. He stressed that the redevelopment of Khyndailad has not been shelved.
“You know very well that even the old Assembly has not yet shifted to the new location. Once that happens, we can begin the full beautification of the area,” Dhar stated.
According to Dhar, a Detailed Project Report (DPR) is in its final stages. The proposed plan includes dismantling the old Assembly building, developing pedestrian walkways, improving footpaths, installing flower pots and upgrading tiles throughout the stretch.
