Chief Minister Conrad Sangma has said that the State government will prepare a master plan to give Meghalaya’s largest traditional market, Ïewduh a facelift.
The Chief Minister said considering that the livelihood of close to one lakh people depend on the market directly and indirectly, the government would put in efforts by providing the necessary infrastructure and amenities to improve commuting, trading, and daily life for all.
Sangma, accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh, officials of various departments, chief of Hima Mylliem Ainam Manik Syiem and myntris, noted the problems of water flow and drains as the visit was made amidst the rain.
The Chief Minister said though works have already commenced with the sanctioned Rs 6 crore, an additional Rs 15 crore will also be allocated to provide a comprehensive facelift to the market, including enhanced drainage, pedestrian pathways, sanitation, and improved facilities for traders and commuters.
“We realised that there is much more to be done and therefore we will prepare a master plan for the overall improvement in Ïewduh,” he told reporters.
Ïewduh, a bustling traditional market located in the heart of Shillong, is home to hundreds of vendors and traders selling vegetables, meat, fish, groceries, spices, household goods, textiles, and indigenous handicrafts. As the primary economic lifeline of the Khasi Hills, the market not only serves the residents of Meghalaya but also attracts traders and customers from across the state and beyond.
During the visit, the Chief Minister walked through several alleys of the market to assess its conditions and interacted with shopkeepers and vendors to understand the ground realities.
“Thank God it rained and we could see what problems people actually face and made us realise that we need to do a lot more in this area,” he said.
Sangma reaffirmed the government’s commitment to inclusive development and said, “We will work hand-in-hand with local bodies, market committees, and the people to ensure that Ïewduh reflects the aspirations of a growing Meghalaya.”
