The State government has initiated a riverfront development project for Wah Umkhrah in the city.
The foundation stone for Wah Umkhrah Riverfront Development Project at Polo was laid by Chief Minister Conrad Sangma today.
The project envisages redevelopment of the Wah Umkhrah riverfront to a central hub for recreational, cultural, and social activities, with a cost of Rs 39 crore.
It aims not only to restore the ecological balance of the river but also to create a harmonious blend of modern amenities.
Stating that mere beautification of the riverfront is meaningless, Sangma said, “Developing the riverfront and maintaining the river are two different aspects. We are working closely with the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti to clean up Umkhrah and Umshyrpi.”
Sangma said that the Central government has asked the State to revisit its proposal for cleaning of the two rivers and the same is being considered. “
“We will be working towards cleaning of the rivers, which is very much needed,” he added.
Seeking cooperation from different stakeholders, the chief minister urged the community to join hands to ensure their bit in the success of the project by involving in protecting rivers and streams that form the identity of Shillong.
On the decongestion of Shillong city, he said that different areas have been identified for multi-level parking lots and hawker zones.
“A piece of land in Polo between Hotel Polo Towers and Majestic Hotel, which has been lying without any use will be transferred to the Urban Affairs Department from the Forest Department and will be developed for multi-level parking,” Sangma informed.
He further said that the government has identified many lands in the city, including one near the State Secretariat which would be developed for multi-level parking.
Talking on congestion in Khyndailad and Ïewduh due to unregulated vehicular movement, Sangma said that the government has identified choking points, and is planning alternatives to decongest the two popular markets with demarcated areas and zones for buses and taxis to park.
