SHILLONG : The Meghalaya Government has finalised the division of responsibilities for maintaining street lights across Shillong and has also launched an initiative to remove hanging utility wires from key parts of the city, Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar said on Wednesday.
Dhar, who also holds the Urban Affairs portfolio, said the maintenance of street lighting will now be shared among the Shillong Municipal Board (SMB), the Power Department, and Shillong Smart City Limited to ensure better coordination and avoid duplication of work.
“We have decided that street lights in some areas will be maintained by the Municipal Board. Part of the proposals and maintenance will also be handled by the Power Department and Smart City,” Dhar told reporters.
He informed that the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the street lighting project has already been prepared, while consultations are underway with traditional heads to identify priority locations for implementation.
“We are working on the first phase. Almost all important areas will get lights and will be maintained by the Municipal Board. Some areas will be taken up by the Power Department,” he said.
According to Dhar, the areas of responsibility will be clearly demarcated among the concerned agencies to ensure smooth maintenance and avoid any confusion.
The Deputy Chief Minister also said the government has begun addressing the issue of hanging utility wires across Shillong following directions from Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma.
“We will focus on all important areas where there are too many hanging wires. We will relocate them properly and neatly so that our city looks clean,” Dhar said.
The initiative is part of the government’s efforts to improve Shillong’s urban infrastructure, enhance public safety, and give the city a cleaner and more organised appearance.