By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Dec 15: Christmas decorations and illuminations are delayed in Shillong just 10 days before the holiday, due to confusion over departmental responsibilities.
While other Northeastern states are already lit up with festive displays, Shillong remains largely dark.
Tourism Minister Timothy D Shira confirmed the holdup, explaining that the Tourism department initially wanted to start the work early but was informed that the Arts and Culture department traditionally handles the city’s festive decorations.
“This year, we will only illuminate and decorate those areas of Shillong which are not covered by the Arts and Culture department,” the Minister stated.
Shira added that the Tourism department intends to decorate other towns, such as Jowai and Tura, starting next year, and potentially all district headquarters if funding allows.
The minister noted that the state anticipates a high influx of visitors this year to experience the Christmas and New Year festivities.
He added that the department also intends to organise special programmes during the season, starting next year, to attract more tourists.
While much of the city awaits lighting, work is currently underway in Police Bazar—an area illuminated every year—but officials expect the decorations to take some more days to complete.
