By Gregory F Shullai.
To be considered a smart city today, a city must first possess the desire to be “smart” and have the necessary ingredients that qualify it as such. This was not always the case. My first question, therefore, is: Does Shillong qualify as a smart city, or do its citizens want to be smart?
As someone who has lived in Shillong since the 1950s, I firmly believe that Shillong has always been a smart city, albeit one that is currently under threat. To address this threat, we must first understand what we have lost and what we still possess.
At the start of the millennium, Shillong was still a thriving city. Despite experiencing the same challenges as other urban centers, its strong foundation ensured that these issues never became overwhelming. Shillong boasted a picturesque lake, a botanical garden, a forest, a reliable water supply, and a park that attracted visitors and residents alike.
So, do we still qualify as a smart city? The answer is yes, but not to the same extent as we once did. The problem lies in the fact that those advocating for a smart city today do not want to preserve its existing character, but rather transform it into something entirely different.
To better understand this desire, we must ask ourselves: What do those advocating for a smart city really want? Are we looking to replicate the same concept of a smart city that exists elsewhere, or do we want to create something unique to Shillong?
For nearly a century, Shillong has been the capital of Assam and later Meghalaya. Throughout this time, the city has acquired a distinct character that sets it apart from other urban centers. We have inherited a rich legacy, including the Wards Lake, the Golf Course, Police Bazar, Bara Bazar, and the forests that surround the city.
However, we are currently witnessing signs of degeneration, particularly with regards to the influx of people from outside the state. This has led to concerns about the city’s ability to maintain its unique character.
Shillong’s smartness is rooted in its people, who possess a distinct social sense that is unparalleled elsewhere. The city’s matrilineal society, its respect for women, and its strong social fabric are all integral to its smart city identity.
As we navigate the challenges of creating a modern smart city, we must not forget the values that have always defined Shillong. We must blend our traditional heritage with modern technology, creating a unique fusion that showcases our smart city credentials.
In today’s context, a smart city is often defined as an urban center that incorporates specialized planning, technology, and AI compatibility. However, this approach can be narrow and misguided, as it often prioritizes technology over human concerns.
As we move forward, we must ask ourselves: Do we want to sacrifice our unique heritage for the sake of modernization? Or can we find a way to preserve our distinct character while still embracing the benefits of technology?
Shillong is a city like no other, and it must remain so. While we may adopt modern technologies, we must do so in a way that respects and preserves our unique heritage. Only then can we truly create a smart city that is worthy of our rich legacy.
