SHILLONG: BJP Meghalaya General Secretary Wankitbok Pohshna has urged the state government to adopt underground cabling in Shillong, citing the growing tangle of overhead utility wires as both a public safety hazard and an eyesore that undermines the city’s image as a tourist destination.
Speaking to reporters, Pohshna highlighted that dangling and abandoned wires pose a threat to pedestrians, especially at night.
While tourists admire the ambience of Police Bazaar (Khyndailad), he noted that the web of overhead cables detracts from the area’s visual appeal.
Pohshna welcomed Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma’s recent initiative to remove unused and damaged overhead wires, but emphasized that this should be seen as only an immediate solution.
He called for a comprehensive plan to modernize Shillong’s utility infrastructure by shifting both power and communication cables underground.
ALSO READ: Frequent Power Cuts in Meghalaya are Regulated Shutdowns Not Loadshedding, Clarifies CM
He pointed out that the current cable removal efforts are being executed ahead of the National Games, but stressed that the government’s vision should extend beyond the event.
“The focus should not be limited to the National Games. The government should plan for Shillong’s long-term development and beautification,” Pohshna said.
Drawing comparisons with neighboring Assam, which has already started implementing underground cabling, he suggested Meghalaya could adopt a similar system, especially in high-footfall tourist areas like Police Bazaar, Laitumkhrah, and other key localities.
Pohshna also noted that underground cabling would improve the reliability of electricity supply, as overhead wires are frequently damaged by heavy rainfall, strong winds, and falling trees—leading to recurring power outages throughout the city.
While acknowledging the considerable investment required, Pohshna argued that the long-term benefits—including improved public safety, enhanced urban aesthetics, and a more resilient power network—would justify the cost.
He cited Chandigarh as a successful example of an Indian city with underground utility infrastructure and emphasized the need for effective inter-departmental coordination and strong political will to execute such projects.
Highlighting international examples, he noted that several countries have implemented underground systems, resulting in cleaner cityscapes and better-designed public infrastructure, including improved street lighting.
Pohshna said the BJP would submit its recommendations to the state government, urging the adoption of underground cabling not only in Shillong but also in district headquarters across Meghalaya as part of a broader effort to modernize urban infrastructure and boost the state’s appeal to visitors.
(4FrontMedia news)
