Shillong, Aug 17: The Shillong Municipal Board on Monday relocated 86 hawkers from Laitumkhrah to a designated vending area at Dhankheti parking lot and Brightwell Bunglow in Barik as part of an ongoing drive to decongest footpaths and roads in the city.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the relocation drive, Chief Executive Officer of SMB PK Boro said the exercise was carried out after due notice and with the cooperation of the vendors.
“Here we have 86 hawkers. All will be relocated to Dhankheti and Brightwell Bunglow. Everything has been arranged and done. They are all obeying, complying and cooperating with us,” Boro said.
He said the relocation was not an overnight action and that vendors had been given sufficient time to prepare.
“This is not about one day. We had issued notices giving them one month’s time and today is the day for relocation. They have all accepted and relocated,” he added.
According to SMB, the move is aimed at making streets and footpaths in Laitumkhrah cleaner and more pedestrian-friendly after hawkers were seen occupying public spaces.
On being asked about hawkers’ issue in Jail Road, Boro said that issue would be dealt with separately.
“That is a different issue. We will take action accordingly,” he said.
Boro also informed that the government is extending financial assistance to all hawkers and street vendors affected by the relocation.
