By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 21: The Meghalaya government has admitted that the Rs 100-crore Polo Shopping Mall remains non-functional as high rental rates have deterred potential operators.
Inaugurated by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in July last year, the commercial hub has failed to start operations despite its high-profile opening. Deputy Chief Minister in charge of Urban Affairs, Sniawbhalang Dhar, stated that the government has floated tenders on three to four occasions without success.
“It seems the rates are high, and we may have to reduce them to attract interest,” Dhar said. He added that the government might consider an alternative management system if bidders continue to stay away from the facility.
Regarding the upcoming Tourism-cum-Business Centre at Police Bazar, Dhar said the government would determine its operational model once the project is completed. Addressing the status of the multi-level car park, he noted that the government is yet to appoint a private operator and the facility is currently being managed by the department.
