Guwahati: Shillong, Meghalaya is set for a major makeover with the state government identifying nearly 25 acres of land for development projects aimed at beautifying the city and decongesting traffic.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma announced the plans after inspecting areas around the PWD office, Phan Nonglait Park, Brightwell Bungalow, Barik Point, Anjali Point and Polo Grounds.
The initiative includes creating new walkways, green spaces and recreational areas to enhance Shillong’s aesthetics and provide more public spaces for residents.
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Museums and cultural centres will also be established to showcase Meghalaya’s rich heritage.
Barik Point will see the construction of an iconic structure, including a National Flag visible from across the city, symbolizing unity and pride. The available space will be further utilized for public amenities like restaurants, parking spaces, and restrooms catering to both locals and tourists.
The project will be implemented in phases to minimize disruption. Existing offices at Barik Point will be relocated in July, followed by the commencement of new construction in September.
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The announcement comes after a 2020 controversy surrounding a proposal to build a shopping mall at Barik Point instead of a public park, which had won a design competition.
The Chief Minister assured that utmost care will be taken to preserve existing greenery during development.
To address traffic congestion, the plans include creating additional parking spaces, including multi-level car parks, at strategic locations. A new road will also be constructed from the NEFA Secretariat to the Military Hospital to ease congestion at Anjali Point, a major traffic bottleneck.