By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, May 16: While the state government touts Shillong as a burgeoning “Smart City,” the reality at 3:00 AM reveals a landscape of non-functional streetlights and a total disappearance of security patrols, leaving the heart of the capital vulnerable.
A spot check by this reporter across Police Bazar, Laitumkhrah, and adjoining areas in the early hours of the morning highlighted a stark contrast to the city’s orderly daytime image. Despite the “Safe City” tag, several streetlights along the Police Bazar stretch were switched off, plunging the commercial hub into darkness and rendering surveillance difficult.
The absence of a visible police presence was conspicuous at key transit points. At Khyndai Lad, approximately ten young women were seen standing at various spots in the dark. Similar scenes were observed at the IGP Point bus stop. Without active patrolling or adequate lighting, these individuals remain exposed in a city that effectively shuts down its security apparatus after midnight.
The lack of oversight also extends to the roads. While the streets were largely deserted, the silence was frequently broken by vehicles carrying youths playing loud music and cheering, moving through the capital unchecked. Meanwhile, heavy trucks and private vehicles continued to transit through the city with minimal surveillance.
In the absence of formal facilities or security guidance, tourist cab drivers were found sleeping in their vehicles parked along the roadsides at Khyndai Lad and other areas.
As Shillong pushes for modern urban status, the systemic collapse of basic infrastructure and security during the late hours raises urgent questions for the Shillong Municipal Board and the Home Department regarding the reality of citizen safety.
