Shillong: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Monday distributed one-time relocation grants to vendors shifted to Barik and Dhanketi as part of the government’s efforts to balance vendors’ livelihoods with the beautification of Shillong.
Under the assistance scheme, each vendor will receive Rs 20,000, with Rs 10,000 to be transferred immediately through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), followed by Rs 2,000 per month for the next five months.
Speaking during the distribution and interaction with vendors, Sangma said the relocation was made possible through the cooperation of all stakeholders involved in the process.
“Though it may look like a small and simple step, it is one of the most challenging situations that we have faced because it is not only about development but linked with the livelihood of the people and the overall beautification of the city,” he said.
The chief minister said prime locations had been allotted to the relocated vendors to strike a balance between their livelihoods and the aesthetics of the city’s roads and streets.
Dear Reader,
Every day, our team at EastMojo travels through rain, rough roads, and remote hills to bring you stories that matter – stories from your town, your people, your Northeast.
We do this because we believe in truthful, independent journalism. No big corporate backing, no government pressure – just honest reporting by local journalists who live and breathe the same air you do.
But to keep doing this work, we need you. Your small contribution helps us pay our reporters fairly, reach places others ignore, and keep asking the tough questions.
If you believe the Northeast deserves its own fearless voice, stand with us.
Support independent journalism. Be a Member.
Thank you,
Karma Paljor
Editor-in-Chief, eastmojo.com
He urged tourists and citizens to visit the designated vending zones, which, he said, would be developed into vibrant spaces with toilet facilities, seating areas, decorative lighting and live performances in the evenings.
The relocation grant is intended to support vendors during the transition to their new locations.
The programme was attended by Arts and Culture Minister and South Shillong MLA Sanbor Shullai, East Shillong MLA Dr M Ampareen Lyngdoh, and officials from the Urban Affairs department.
Also Read | From midnight skates to the World Stage: Meet Kima, Mizoram’s skateboarding star