SHILLONG: West Shillong MLA and Social Welfare Department Adviser, Paul Lyngdoh, today convened a high-level inspection with a federation of 10 Dorbar Shnongs, myntris of Hima Mylliem and officials from key agencies, resulting in swift decisions aimed at addressing critical infrastructure and sanitation issues in the area.
The inspection brought together representatives from the Public Health Engineering (PHE) Department, Shillong Municipal Board (SMB), Meghalaya Urban Development Authority (MUDA), and the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL).
New Alignment for Water & Road Project Deadlines
Following discussions focused on drinking water supply and sanitation, Lyngdoh announced the approval of a new alignment for water pipes. This decision was necessary because the aging, inadequate pipes are causing water to flow improperly into drainage channels.
Regarding pending infrastructure, the MLA issued directives to accelerate projects, particularly road works, which he aims to have completed before Christmas this year.
- PHE Work: The remaining major task is the replacement of the old water pipes. The PHE Department has been directed to quickly prepare the necessary drawings and financial estimates before work can commence.
- Iewduh and Road Projects: Lyngdoh clarified that the ₹25 crore sanctioned under the Rejuvenation Project is specifically for improvements within the Iewduh market itself. For the surrounding areas falling under PWD and National Highway jurisdiction, the concerned departments have sought time to submit their detailed plans and financial estimates.
- National Highway Stretch: The NHIDCL officer-in-charge confirmed that financial estimates for the Paltan Bazar stretch have been prepared. However, the MLA intervened, instructing officials to first present the drawings and estimates for approval and suggestions before the tender invitation is issued. The execution of this road stretch will be carried out by the PWD and the relevant National Highway sections after the review.
Action Against Stalled and Unutilized Shops
The inspection also tackled the issue of unutilized and stalled construction of shops, following complaints from the Dorbar Shnongs.
Lyngdoh confirmed that construction of some shops, where MUDA had already selected a contractor, remains stalled due to an objection from a single individual. The MLA issued an immediate instruction for this matter to be resolved swiftly, noting that the abandoned sites have unfortunately become “dens for illegal activities.”
The MLA also stated his intention to take up the matter of other constructed but unutilized shops with the Chairman of MUDA, aiming to bring all commercial spaces into operation.
