Complex to house over 100 shops * Escalators among features
Shillong, July 10: In a major development in urban infrastructure growth in Meghalaya, the long-awaited Rs 100.33-crore Polo Commercial Complex was inaugurated by union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday.
The flagship project under Smart Cities Mission, which will house over 100 shops besides other amenities, is part of a larger urban renewal vision of the state government.
Earlier, welcoming the union finance minister, chief minister Conrad K Sangma termed her three-day visit to Meghalaya (July 10–13) as a “momentous occasion,” and expressed gratitude for her enduring support towards the state and the North East region as a whole.
“This is not just the inauguration of a building—it’s the beginning of a transformation for Shillong. Many projects are lined up to reshape the city’s future,” Sangma said, highlighting the series of development initiatives now underway.
Acknowledging Sitharaman’s role in enabling Meghalaya to fully leverage the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme, he said the state has been among the top beneficiaries of SASCI.
“People see roads and buildings coming up, but don’t always know that they’re built with SASCI support — generously sanctioned by the Finance Ministry,” he added.
Sangma also announced that a Rs 35 crore riverfront beautification project has already been sanctioned and work is in progress.
The government is simultaneously working on a master plan to decongest the city by shifting key administrative functions to the upcoming New Shillong Township, which will house institutions like NIFT, IIM, and a new Assembly building.
Future plans include smart underground utility networks, tourism infrastructure, and vibrant commercial spaces to empower local entrepreneurs and youth.
The Polo Commercial Complex, soon to be tendered for public operation, features modern amenities like gaming zones, a food court, ample parking, and advanced safety systems.
Foundation of the project, spread over 1.2 acres with a built-up area of 1.7 lakh square feet, was laid in on October 28, 2020 and it was completed in December 2024.
The complex will house 109 shops (ranging from 396 to 4,470 sq ft) and eight offices (830 to 8,050 sq ft) besides leisure amenities such as food court and gaming zone.
There are parking facility for 86 cars and 50 two-wheelers and five lifts, 12 escalators, 5 emergency exits, 110 CCTV cameras.
A sewage treatment plant (75 kl), water treatment plant, rainwater harvesting, rooftop solar power area among other features of the Polo Commercial Complex.
Sangma stressed that the facility is designed to encourage youth-led businesses and attract economic activity.
Also present during the inauguration were deputy chief minister in-charge Urban Affairs Sniawbhalang Dhar, health minister Ampareen Lyngdoh, chief secretary, and other senior officials.
