SHILLONG, Dec 26: Young bikers turned the streets at Khyndai Lad into a playground through their bike stunts on the December 25 night, thereby endangering their lives and the lives of others.
Instead of dissuading the riders, the spectators encouraged their dangerous antics. It was learnt this happens on a regular basis.
Reports of physical altercations were also received. Despite Khyndai Lad’s reputation as a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, the absence of police personnel on one of the busiest nights raised concerns about the lack of surveillance and safety measures.
While the festive season attracts large crowds, it also demands stricter vigilance. The absence of police personnel during such times reflects poorly on the authorities.
Huge piles of garbage were noticed in the area. Visitors and hawkers had made the place more congested than ever.
The number of hawkers is increasing by the day. The state government could do nothing to make the place free from hawkers except for issuing deadlines from time to time, asking them to vacate the area.
Sources said hawking in the area is not about earning a livelihood any more but expanding business. Some hawkers opened 4-5 shops selling different items, the sources said.
“They just sublet their place to someone else to make more money but in the process, they are only making the place more congested,” a source said.
It was found that a woman, who sells Kwai, engaged another person to look after her another shop that sells clothes. The entire stretch of the road has become Shillong’s new “second-hand market” after the demolition of a bridge in Motphran years back where used clothes were sold.
Residents said removing or relocating the hawkers depends on the will of the government. It was learnt that there is a particular stretch in the area where a private business entity is very particular about not allowing hawkers at all.
“If someone sits there, security guards are immediately sent. So, if private business entities can do it, the government can also do it if it has the will,” the source added.
