Shillong: The Khasi Students Union served a stop-work notice to the state government at Umling this week. They want an end to a planned food court at the regional entry point. The group argues the site should act as a security gate to filter illegal immigrants, not a roadside cafe. Workers and tourists do not mix.
Led by president Ferdynald Kharkamni, the union met with officials at the Secretariat on Wednesday. They pushed for the immediate halt of the construction. The multi-crore building has sat empty for over a year after serving as a COVID-19 center. Kharkamni claimed the union saw project drawings proving the space is intended for dining rather than security.
"Instead of restoring the centre for its intended purpose, the government has initiated work for a food court," Kharkamni said. The union notes the proposed kitchen takes up 11,000 of the 28,000 square feet available. They fear this layout leaves no room for the Labour Department office or infiltration checks.
Traffic remains a nightmare at the current Byrnihat gate. The union wants the check point moved to Umling to solve the logjam. They now demand a look at the project documents and plan to meet with Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma. The KSU maintains that enforcing the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act must come before any commercial development.
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