KSU and HNYF demand removal of road-blocking Durga Puja pandals in Meghalaya

Shillong: The Khasi Students Union is putting pressure on the Public Works Department. They want temporary Durga Puja pandals removed from public roads. Commuters are stuck. The union argues these structures block traffic and endanger pedestrians in areas where space is already tight.

In a letter to the PWD Chief Engineer, the KSU demanded stricter rules for construction on state roads. The group cited complaints from the public and local stakeholders. "These structures have been causing difficulties for the smooth movement of vehicles and pedestrians, particularly in areas where road space is already limited," the union stated.

This push follows a similar move by the Hyniewtrep National Youth Front in the East Khasi Hills. On September 29, HNYF president Steveson Raymond Khryiem warned the Deputy Commissioner about potential gridlock in Shillong. The group highlighted specific trouble spots including RR Colony-Rynjah, Laban, Polo, Rilbong, and the Garikhana-Umshyrpi stretch.

The HNYF insists they support the religious celebrations. However, they maintain that festivals must not come at the cost of public access. They want the district administration to keep major thoroughfares open for all residents and vehicles throughout the holiday period.