By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Dec 29: Even as poor road conditions continue to challenge daily life, the border village of Majai along the international of India-Bangladesh has emerged as a symbol of unity, hope and festive spirit by celebrating Christmas with vibrant decorations and community participation.
With Christmas celebrations and preparations to welcome the New Year underway, villages across the state—beyond just Shillong city—have embraced the festive mood.
Majai village, known for its proximity to the Bangladesh border and its role in cross-border trade, stood out as residents and shnong authorities came together to decorate village roads with colourful wire lights designed in various attractive patterns.
Despite limited development in the area, the festive illumination was made possible through collective effort and cooperation among villagers under the leadership of Balajied Iawbor, Acting Sirdar, along with the entire Executive Committee. The initiative reflected strong community spirit and effective local leadership.
Notably, the decorations were installed along the stretch from Lailad Umdud towards the border through Majai village, despite the deteriorated condition of the road. From the night of December 23, the village roads were lit up, drawing attention and appreciation from passers-by.
While the road from Ichamati to Lailad Umdud—covering more than 9 km—has seen improvement under the PMGSY scheme, villagers expressed hope for a blacktopped road extending all the way to Majai to improve connectivity and quality of life.
Residents said Christmas represents a season of joy and hope, not only for the Christian community but for all citizens. Through the celebrations, the village aimed to send a message of hope and solidarity, especially to those who may not be able to celebrate the festival, highlighting that even border villages can share in the festive spirit.
At the same time, the village dorbar appealed to elected representatives, including MPs, MLAs, and MDCs, to give greater attention to rural and border areas like Majai, which continue to lag behind in development, particularly in road infrastructure.
The village dorbar also raised concerns over the Border Haat, which was earlier operational but has been disrupted due to instability in Bangladesh. Villagers urged the State Government to intervene and resolve the issues so that cross-border trade can resume, providing livelihood opportunities and improving economic conditions for local residents.
Additionally, Majai village called upon both the State Government and the Government of India to expedite the completion of border fencing in the area to ensure the safety and security of border residents.
The village dorbar further sought increased developmental assistance, stating that the region still requires significant infrastructural and economic support.
Despite challenges, Majai’s Christmas celebrations stood as a testament to resilience, cooperation, and hope in one of the state’s remote border regions.
