Shillong, Oct 10: The state government has started identifying a few locations for the proposed relocation of 342 families of Harijan Colony from Them Iew Mawlong, Deputy Chief Minister in-charge Urban Affairs Sniawbhalang Dhar told reporters on Friday.
Stating that discussions are under way before finalising the new location he said, “We are on the job, and you will know when we decide.”
About the proposed defence land for the colony, he said the government is still in talks with the Defence Ministry on the matter.
Meanwhile, a case on the issue is also pending in the court.
“We are doing our own job as a state government (to speed up the relocation),” Dhar said while expressing the hope that the issue would be resolved mutually, despite the court proceedings.
“Maybe we will take some time, but we are not sitting idle… we are serious about this matter,” he assured.
Hawker relocation to take time
On the relocation of hawkers, Dhar said the government working to identify suitable sites for the purpose.
He, however said the process of relocation of hawkers from Laitumkhrah, GS Road, etc., will take time.
“It will take time because I cannot throw my people on the streets. I have to find a place for them, put them in the right place, and everything will be okay,” he assured.
Asked on the issue raised by hawkers at Khyndailad area, Dhar emphasized that the issuance of Certificates of Verification (CoV) will be strictly based on genuine documentations.
Officials are holding regular meetings to create awareness and encourage people to furnish correct documents, he said.
The Deputy CM expressed gratitude to the people for cooperating with the government on the complex issue.
