SHILLONG:
Meghalaya Chief Minister, Conrad K. Sangma inaugurated the redeveloped IGP junction on Friday, November 15, 2024, marking a significant milestone in enhancing urban mobility in Shillong.
The inauguration attended by dignitaries including the Deputy Chief Minister in charge of Urban Affairs, Sniawbhalang Dhar, Additional Chief Secretary, Director General of Police, Commissioner & Secretary, Urban Affairs Department, Deputy Commissioner – East Khasi Hills and other State Department officers, started with CM unveiling the junction followed by officials walking to the Meghalaya Secretariat along the newly painted pedestrian area under Tactical Urbanism Trial.
This junction is designed to ensure safer pedestrian crossings and streamline traffic flow. Additionally, it includes a police booth constructed with traditional materials that reflect the rich and vibrant Khasi cultures. The Hon’ble CM emphasized that the compost produced from the Marten landfill has been utilized for the plantations at the junction. Through this initiative the State, with support from the community, aims to create more vibrant streets and walkways that enhances mobility while ensuring safe, aesthetically appealing streets and establishing an iconic identity. Additionally, the following projects are underway to further ease congestion and enhance the overall quality of life in Shillong.
Shillong Smart City Mission:
Establishment of an Integrated Command and Control Center (ICCC) for centralized city surveillance and swift incident response.
Installation of smart poles with air quality sensors, energy-efficient LED lighting, WiFi connectivity, display boards and panic buttons at various locations.
Repurposing Govt. Land:
Redevelopment of 25 acres of Government-owned land in the city into social and public infrastructure
Redevelopment of Lady Hydari Park, Brightwell Bungalow and Crinoline View Bungalow with recreational space, parking facilities, vending zones, and expansion space for the Civil Hospital.
Redevelopment of the PWD complex at Barik to a vibrant open space.
Development of the Wah Umkhrah riverfront and Wards Lake promenade.
Redevelopment of Anjalee Petrol Pump junction to streamline pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
Proposed Redevelopment of Lady Hydari Park.
Street Vending:
Implementation of the Meghalaya Street Vendors Scheme to regulate street vending and protect vendors’ livelihoods.
Designated vending spaces for all surveyed street vendors in the Shillong municipal area
Currently, arrangements for approximately 250 vendors to be relocated to the MUDA parking lot, Khyndai Lad, with ample space, safety, and amenities like washrooms.
Exploration underway for additional locations in Laitumkrah, Polo, and other areas to accommodate street vendors.
Redevelopment of Iew Duh:
Redevelop Iew Duh To ensure a safer, more hygienic, and accessible space for all with active engagement from community.
Proposed redevelopment at Iew Duh
Modernization of public transportation system:
Procurement of 35 new buses underway for Public Transportation under MUDA.
Procurement of 50 electric buses by MoHUA under Prime Minister’s E-Bus Sewa Scheme.
1,366 parking spaces across Shillong to address on street parking and traffic congestion.
Shillong Ropeway Project:
First ropeway in Shillong, connecting to Shillong Peak to Laban.
The bidder/contractor of the project has been finalized and execution of the works to be commenced.
The various initiatives undertaken by the Government are designed to work in harmony, collectively advancing the overarching goal of transforming Shillong into a safer and more efficient urban area. The revamped IGP junction exemplifies this modern vision for Shillong, showcasing a commitment to urban development that emphasizes community involvement, safety, and the conservation of cultural identity. Through these projects, the Government is laying the groundwork for a vibrant, sustainable urban future that respects both tradition and progress.
