The nightmare of dug-up roads
Residents of the two bustling localities of Mawbah and Upper Mawprem are facing daily ordeals in attending to routine works like walking, driving children to school, or going for work, thanks to dug-up roads torn open to lay distribution pipes under the Greater Shillong Water Supply Scheme (GSWSS). While the project promises better water access the abysmal pace of execution has left residents in despair.
The work crawls at a snail’s pace, with PHE workers shifting between the two localities to complete the pipe-laying work. However, those portions of the roads where the pipe-laying work has been completed are not being repaired, turning these neighbourhoods into obstacle courses of mud, gravel, and stone dust.
The most immediate hardship is mobility. These are densely populated areas with narrow roads. Dug-up sections force vehicles into chaotic corners, causing snarls while posing hazards.
Two-wheelers, the lifeline for most middle-class families in Shillong, skid on loose earth or stone dust that have been casually sprayed on the dug-up sections. Many have slipped and fallen; while others are wondering what would be their fate if the skies decide to open up one of these days.
Crews of just a handful of workers toil slowly, as if time is no concern. This is not development; it is prolonged suffering.
While residents of Mawbah and Upper Mawprem are not against progress, they are appalled at the lack of urgency from the departments— PHE and PWD—to complete the work.
Until it’s done, residents will have no option but to pray to the Rain God to wait until the departments wake up from their slumber and prioritise the life of citizens.
Love in the pine city
In Shillong, Valentine’s Day is a vivid reflection of the city’s demographic energy. As the heart of one of India’s youngest states—where approximately 74% of the population is under the age of 35—the Scotland of the East transformed into a hub of celebration on Saturday.
The pulse of the day was most visible in Police Bazar. The city’s central commercial district was packed with young couples navigating the busy streets hand-in-hand, creating an atmosphere of shared celebration. Local cafés and restaurants reported a significant surge in footfall, with many establishments operating at full capacity as patrons gathered for special meals and live music.
For those seeking a quieter pace, Ward’s Lake remained a primary destination. The picturesque park and its iconic wooden bridge were crowded throughout the afternoon, providing a scenic backdrop for couples. Several venues across the city also hosted curated programmes, ranging from acoustic sets to themed events, catering to the holiday rush.
The day was marked by a distinct sense of style, with young residents dressed in their best attire, carrying bouquets through the city’s winding lanes. Beyond the commercial aspect, the celebrations highlighted Shillong’s enduring character: a city that remains deeply connected to its youth and their embrace of modern traditions.
