By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Feb 27: Deputy Chief Minister in-charge Home (Police) Prestone Tynsong informed the Assembly on Friday that the government will restructure the Home Guards’ salary mechanism, replace ageing fire tenders and revive the state’s road safety board.
Replying to a cut motion, Tynsong said the government decided last year to transfer the salary head to the Civil Defence and Home Guards department. This arrangement is intended to resolve recurring salary delays for Home Guards.
Regarding fire services, the minister acknowledged that several fire tenders are outdated. He assured the House that the government is initiating a phased replacement of vehicles and upgrading firefighting equipment through an annual modernisation programme.
Addressing the high rate of road accidents, Tynsong announced the revival of the statutory Road Safety Board. He said the board would facilitate better coordination among departments to implement effective accident prevention measures.
On traffic congestion, Tynsong described Shillong’s gridlock as chronic and noted similar challenges emerging in district headquarters. He said the government intends to strengthen traffic branches or create additional units to regulate flow and assist pedestrians. He also suggested that punishment, rather than just fines, should be the priority for reckless driving.
Turning to police conduct, the Deputy Chief Minister acknowledged complaints of high-handedness and admitted that many citizens still fear uniformed personnel. He said that while regular training exists, the government is revising modules to focus on behavioural sensitivity.
Following discussions with the DGP, the upgraded training will aim to make officers more approachable. Tynsong remarked that while the police should deter criminals, ordinary citizens should not feel apprehensive, adding that officers must learn to listen before taking action.
