The PWD complex at Barik in the city would soon be converted into a Unity Park.
The master plan for the redevelopment of the complex into a Unity Park which was prepared by the Urban Affairs Department was unveiled by Chief Minister Conrad Sangma at the site today.
“This Unity Park will symbolise the unity of the State and country, featuring representations of different cultures and tribes, including Khasi, Pnar, Garo, Bodos and other communities in the State,” Sangma said.
The project with an estimated cost of approximately Rs 25 crore is expected to commence by October or November this year.
The PWD complex at Barik is planned to be redeveloped into an iconic public space that will celebrate cultural heritage, provide a rich experience for tourists, and serve as a social gathering place for residents.
This ambitious project will create a sprawling 3.5 acres of open space, marking the first large, planned open area for citizens in the State.
The project includes several key components. These include a pedestrian plaza, an open ground, the high mast national flag, an open exhibition area, a taxi terminal and parking and a moving lane, private vehicle parking, a food court, a children’s play area.
Notably, the project involves the transformation and restoration of nine heritage buildings, over 100 years old, currently housing PWD offices.
With the expertise of INTACH (Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage), these heritage buildings will be repurposed into tourist information centres, souvenir shops, cafes, galleries and workshops.
INTACH has identified one Grade 1 building (of national or historical importance) and eight Grade 2 buildings (of regional or local importance) in the compound. The proposed redevelopment plan conserves and repurposes these buildings for adaptive reuse.
The chief minister emphasised that the project will be developed keeping in mind the sensitivity of the people and society, ensuring minimal intervention and preserving the legacy and history of nine heritage buildings.
The park will also display art symbolising various cultures and communities, including cultures of other states as well to serve as a reminder of the unity among the people.
Commending the cooperation between the Urban Affairs Department and the Public Work Department involved in this iconic project, Sangma also announced plans for more projects to transform the entire Shillong city, expecting significant completion within the next 12 months.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Secretary Donald P. Wahlang noted that the high mast national flag that was installed at the Barik complex today is probably one of the tallest and largest in the North East region. A monumental national flag is 100 per cent polyester cloth and stands at a height of 40 meters, with a size of 45 feet by 30 feet adhering to all protocols specified in the Flag Code of India.
He highlighted that the initiative to retransform the Barik complex has been in the planning stages for a long time but has finally come to fruition under the present government’s vision.
Wahlang praised the government’s approach of not only being aggressive but also sensitive, ensuring the protection of heritage buildings, which will now serve as iconic landmarks with a purpose.
He added that this project aims to reduce traffic congestion in the entire city, showcasing the government’s commitment to balancing progress with preservation.
Present at the event were cabinet ministers Comingone Ymbon and Abu Taher Mondal, East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner Rosetta Mary Kurbah, Urban Affairs Director Isawanda Laloo, Director General of Police Idashisha Nongrang, PWD Secretary Barilang W. Phira and other officials.
