Govt very fair with hawkers, went out of the way: Paul
Shillong, July 7: The “no vending zone” order issued for Khyndailad apart from the dedicated vending zone in the city’s commercial hub may be implemented this time as the government has remained firm on July-22 deadline for relocation of hawkers and street vendors in the area.
Cabinet minister and government spokesperson Paul Lyngdoh expressed confidence in achieving complete compliance of the order.
“The government expect complete compliance of the order for relocation of hawkers by July 22. We have adequate manpower and also the high court verdict has in fact strengthen our case,” he said.
Highlighting the government’s plans to pedestrianise key areas, including the stretch from Khyndailad to Jail Road and Umsohsun, he said there would be restricted access for vehicles of the particular area with entry-exit timing.
The first phase of the project is already under way, with Meghalaya Urban Development Authority (MUDA) having necessary plans in place, he said.
Meanwhile, hawkers and vendors who agree to relocate, will receive a package of Rs 20,000, comprising an upfront payment of Rs 10,000 and a monthly allowance of Rs 2,000 for five months.
Lyngdoh emphasised that the government has been fair and invested in providing vendors with over a year’s time to relocate.
“We have done much more than any government would have done. We have gone out of our way, invested in that space and given them more than a year’s time to relocate. We have been very fair,” he said.
