By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Nov 17: More than three months have elapsed since the state government announced plans to transform Khyndai Lad into a vibrant hub of music, colour and community spirit but the promised changes remain largely unseen.
On August 14, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma had unveiled Lynti Sur Bathiang, a curated musical street aimed at celebrating Meghalaya’s rich musical heritage.
Meaning “A Path of Beautiful Melodies,” the project was envisioned as a permanent cultural landmark where art, music and urban design would blend to create a lively public space for residents and tourists.
During the launch, the Chief Minister had stated that the government would beautify Khyndai Lad and other parts of Shillong, and provide platforms for young performers through initiatives such as the Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project (MGMP).
Sangma had also announced that the temporary beautification would be followed by a major redesign of the area, including upgraded footpaths, decorative street lamps, benches, coffee shops and designated performance corners to encourage pedestrian movement and cultural engagement.
The then Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh had echoed this vision, describing Shillong not only as the “rock capital” but also the “music capital of India.” He had stated that the space would “unleash fresh talent” by giving buskers and emerging singers a platform while furthering efforts to make the city pedestrian-friendly.
However, none of the promised initiatives, he it musical evenings, beautification works, or footpath upgrades, has materialised at Khyndai Lad.
The area remains unchanged, leading many residents to view the project as another unfulfilled assurance made to city citizens.
Business-cum-tourism centre nears completion
Although the beautification project remains in cold storage, Police Bazar is set to get a swanky business-cum-tourism centre by next month. A government source said on Monday that the construction of the centre on the old Meghalaya Transport Corporation premises is nearing completion. The construction is likely to be completed by December.
The Rs 211 crore project, launched in March 2022, is being implemented by Badri Rai and Company. It is being funded by the Smart City Shillong and the HUDCO.
The centre, comprising two five-floor buildings, will have a connecting bridge with a restaurant on it. The work for the bridge has already started, sources said.
The buildings will have more than 90 shops, a food court, a children’s gaming zone, an art gallery, a performing arts centre, a convention centre, a tourism facilitation centre, a lounge, sit-outs, and an auditorium.
The buildings will be centrally air-conditioned with six escalators and six lifts. The façade work involves structural glazing, and the buildings will have multilevel stack parking, an official said. The design of the project has been vetted by IIT Delhi.
