SHILLONG: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Wednesday said the relocation of street vendors to designated markets is aimed at creating a “win-win” balance between protecting livelihoods and reclaiming public spaces in Shillong.
Sangma made the statement during an inspection of the newly established Polo Vendors’ Market, where he reviewed the facilities and ongoing relocation process.
The Chief Minister acknowledged that relocating vendors would bring challenges but said the move was necessary to address congestion and ensure that public spaces remain accessible.
“Our intention is to protect livelihoods to the maximum extent possible. But we also see that in some locations it is unorganized. Vendors on footpaths block the way for the public and create disruption in the city,” Sangma said.
He said there would not be a perfect solution but stressed that the government was attempting to find the right balance between the interests of vendors and the wider public.
“There will never be a perfect solution. There will always be challenges and compromises. The objective is to find the best mix so we can create a win-win solution,” he added.
CM appeals to vendors to cooperate
Sangma thanked vendors who have already shifted to the new market and appealed to those operating in Laitumkhrah and Jail Road to cooperate with the relocation exercise.
“We are not here to take away anyone’s livelihood. We understand the challenges. But we must also maintain public order and keep pavements clear so people do not face inconvenience,” he said.
The Chief Minister also cited court directives as one of the key reasons behind the ongoing drive to clear pavements and regulate street vending.
He said several streets have already been cleared, with previously blocked pavements now accessible to pedestrians.
“A lot of streets have been cleared. Pavements that were blocked earlier have been opened up. This has been possible because hawkers were supportive and officers worked hard,” Sangma said.
Polo market has 132 stalls
During his visit, Sangma was briefed by officials of the Shillong Municipal Board and the Town Vending Committee on the operations of the new market.
The Polo Vendors’ Market has 132 stalls, with 48 vendors relocated from Polo and 84 from Jail Road. So far, 72 vendors have taken possession of their allotted stalls.
The market has been developed on a 2,270-square-metre site, including a 620-square-metre vending area.
Facilities at the market include toilets, LED lights in each stall and eight halogen lamps. Vendors selling vegetables, fruits, garments, fast food, fish, chicken and pan are among those accommodated at the facility.
Vendors receive livelihood assistance
Sangma also handed over cheques under the Chief Minister’s Urban Livelihood Grant to eligible vendors.
Vendors holding a valid Certificate of Vending (CoV) are eligible for assistance of Rs 20,000, consisting of Rs 10,000 upfront followed by Rs 2,000 per month for five months.
The government has issued 65 Certificates of Vending for the SBI zone and 106 for the Matri Mandir zone.
Relocation under Meghalaya Street Vendors Scheme
The relocation exercise is being implemented under the Meghalaya Street Vendors Scheme, 2023, by the Urban Affairs Department in coordination with the East Khasi Hills district administration.
The exercise follows similar vendor relocation initiatives undertaken in areas including Khyndailad and Civil Hospital.
Sangma said the government intends to extend similar support to other areas, with the broader objective of easing traffic congestion, improving sanitation and creating safer and more organised commercial spaces.
“We are working towards a more inclusive and supportive society. We hope to extend similar support to other areas to ease traffic, improve sanitation and create safer commercial spaces,” he said.