Negotiations on with vendors for smooth transition: Dhar
Shillong, Aug 3: The street vendors and hawkers at Laitumkhrah in the city will be relocated to designated vending zones by August 17, Deputy Chief Minister in-charge of Urban Affairs Sniawbhalang Dhar said on Monday.
Notices have been served to the vendors as part of an exercise taken up following a court order aimed at easing congestion on the streets.
“We have served them notices. They should be shifted by August 17. There is also a court order,” Dhar told reporters in reply to a query.
Department officials are in touch with the vendors to ensure a smooth transition.
“We are having a dialogue and negotiating with them. It seems everything is moving in the right direction,” he said.
Two designated vending zones have been identified for the hawkers at Laitumkhrah.
“We have identified two places — one at Dhankheti parking lot and the other at a private bungalow premises. It is actually a good place for them. If there are lapses here and there, or if it is not up to the mark as they expected, we will work on it,” Dhar said.
Meanwhile, the government is also moving ahead with relocation of street vendors in other parts of the city in a phased manner.
“We have already done this in Jail Road. We have relocated them to Polo and in front of SBI. Next, we will discuss Motphran and GS Road. It will be done in a phased manner. For GS Road too, we have identified a place near Iewduh parking lot for relocation,” he added.
Condolences for Assam flood victims
The Deputy Chief Minister, meanwhile, expressed condolences to the families of the deceased in the recent flood disaster in Assam and said Meghalaya is ready to collectively resolve any inter-state issue with the neighbouring state.
“It is very unfortunate, especially in the state of Assam. It has really affected the people, and I extend my condolences to those who lost their lives,” Dhar said.
He said he had already conveyed to the Chief Minister that a meeting with the Assam Chief Minister should be held at the earliest to discuss and resolve the issues collectively.
“We are not here to blame each other. We are here to work for the people,” he said.
Dhar stressed that both governments have a history of addressing common problems together, particularly those related to connectivity.
Asked about the proposed meeting, Dhar said the discussions would be held in a cordial atmosphere to find the best way forward.
