Overhead cable clutter mars Shillong’s beauty
Even as the Meghalaya government continues to invest heavily in beautifying the state capital, a long-standing and glaring problem remains largely ignored—the maze of overhead wires crisscrossing Shillong’s roads, now an eyesore for residents and visitors alike.
Shillong, often described as the Scotland of the East for its scenic charm, pleasant climate and rich culture, has increasingly begun to look cluttered due to the unchecked spread of overhead electric, WiFi and telephone cables. Despite their unsightly appearance, these wires continue to be overlooked.
A stroll through almost any locality reveals a chaotic web of cables tangled like spaghetti—hanging dangerously low in some areas and tightly knotted in others.
Instead of streamlined urban infrastructure, one is confronted with overlapping wires, damaged poles and loose cables swaying precariously in the wind.
Beyond spoiling the city’s visual appeal, this tangled network poses serious safety hazards.
Exposed and low-hanging wires increase the risk of accidents and electrocution, particularly during the monsoon season when moisture levels are high. Notably, the Meghalaya Energy Corporation Limited (MeECL) has repeatedly assured that steps would be taken to remove overhead cables and shift them underground to improve the city’s aesthetics. However, despite these assurances, little to no visible action has been seen on the ground.
From potholes to polish: City roads getting makeover
Shillong woke up last week to the rumble of road rollers and the smell of fresh tarmac, as the city slipped—almost overnight—into an unexpected phase of road beautification. From the middle of the week, select localities found their familiar streets overtaken by heavy machinery, with work crews racing against time and traffic alike.
Suddenly erected No Entry signs appeared at quiet corners, diverting commuters and puzzling residents. For many, the disruption felt abrupt, even inconvenient, as daily routes were rerouted without much warning. The city, known for its leisurely pace, seemed to move to a faster, noisier rhythm.
Yet, in hindsight, the transformation is hard to miss. Stretches such as Kenchs’ Trace and Oxford Hills now boast smoother surfaces, cleaner lines, and a renewed sense of order. The once-potholed roads have emerged visibly improved, hinting at what could be a broader makeover for the city’s infrastructure. If the current momentum holds, Shillong’s brief brush with inconvenience may well be remembered as the start of smoother journeys ahead.
