Shillong: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Wednesday laid the foundation stone for Phase 2 of the Ïewduh infrastructure and public amenities improvement project, aimed at transforming Meghalaya’s oldest traditional market into a modern, sustainable urban marketplace while preserving its cultural heritage.
The project, spearheaded by the Department of Urban Affairs in collaboration with the Shillong Municipal Board and funded by the North Eastern Council (NEC), has an overall budget of Rs. 45 crore. Phase 1 (Rs. 5 crore) is already underway, Phase 2 (Rs. 14 crore) commenced with today’s event, and Phase 3 (Rs. 20 crore) will follow.
After unveiling the foundation stone, Sangma inspected the market, marking his second visit since May 19 this year.
He was accompanied by Deputy Chief Ministers Prestone Tynsong and Sniawbhalang Dhar, Health Minister Dr. Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh, MLA Sanbor Shullai, senior officials, and traditional leaders including Syiem of Hima Mylliem Ainam Manik Syiem and his myntris.
Addressing the gathering, Sangma acknowledged the tireless contributions of over 5,500 vendors and shopkeepers at Ïewduh, stating that the market had seen little development in 35 years.
“This does not go with the economic growth story of our state. Everyone is moving forward, so why not Ïewduh?” he said, reiterating the government’s vision of making Meghalaya a $10 billion economy.
The Chief Minister urged vendors to cooperate with the redevelopment process and maintain cleanliness. He also launched the Chief Minister’s Urban Livelihood Scheme (CM-ULG), which provides an initial support of Rs. 10,000 to informal workers.
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The grants, to be transferred directly to beneficiaries’ bank accounts, aim to strengthen urban livelihoods. Beneficiaries received cheques under the scheme during the programme.
Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong said the completed project will make Ïewduh “more beautiful than Police Bazar,” while Sniawbhalang Dhar stressed the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure and creating better earning opportunities for local traders.
The Syiem of Hima Mylliem thanked the government for initiating the long-awaited upgrade of the historic market, which remains central to Shillong’s trade and cultural identity.
