The Tourism Department and police held a review meeting today that dwelt on the preparations for the Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival, which will begin on Friday.
The state is expecting to host more than 1 lakh visitors for the three-day music-centric event, which, despite the name, will be held in Bhoirymbong.
Ri-Bhoi Deputy Commissioner Arpit Upadhyaya and district Superintendent of Police Giri Prasad informed that they are fully prepared and have a detailed plan for entry and exit for the public.
“It will be very smooth and we have identified parking places and for coordination too, we have a medical camp also in place, so we are fully prepared for hosting a successful Cherry Blossom Festival,” said the DC.
Traffic arrangements are in place and plan for the deployment of forces. Volunteers will also be on hand to ensure smooth parking and that there is no disruption of traffic on the highway.
There has been a huge hue and cry over the festival ending on a Sunday, a religious day for Christians. Concerning the opposition, Prasad said there is no opposition because the village heads have met and the Tourism Department has made them understand that timings have been changed and will not disrupt church services.
Asked if there is sufficient manpower, the SP responded in the affirmative and added that there will be sufficient police presence at the festival to ensure public safety.
