SHILLONG, Oct 31: After six years of closure due to civil unrest, the road linking Iew Mawlong to Bimola junction through Harijan Colony has finally resumed vehicular traffic. However, according to the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU), this reopening falls short of expectations for the local indigenous community. The KSU has long awaited government action to relocate residents from Harijan Colony, a promise that has been repeatedly delayed since 2018, says KSU General Secretary Donald V Thabah. The state recently set a new deadline to complete relocation by year-end, a commitment the KSU hopes will be honored.
Adelbert Nongrum, North Shillong’s VPP MLA, criticized the government’s handling of the issue, implying that the road had been barricaded to divert public attention from relocation demands. Nongrum indicated that the road’s reopening was due to a Meghalaya High Court intervention focused on alleviating traffic congestion, not governmental initiative.
Local vendors are cautiously optimistic about increased traffic boosting business, though some express concerns about safety and the timing of road access, which currently closes at 4 pm, seeking an extension to 7 pm. The road is vital for vehicles heading to neighboring areas like Nongmensong, Tynring, and Smit.
Bus drivers and shopkeepers hope this development will ease long-standing congestion and improve commerce. Nevertheless, concerns about unresolved relocation issues and past incidents between locals and Colony residents linger, with calls for the government to ensure future safety and proper community integration.
Original Story https://theshillongtimes.com/2024/11/01/reservations-remain-about-reopening-harijan-colony-road-before-relocation/
Category : MEGHALAYA
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Publish Date: 2024-11-01 03:56:00
