Photo Courtesy: nenews
Shillong: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma broke ground on the Malki Market redevelopment project on Wednesday. The plan costs Rs 24.27 crore. He attended the ceremony at Malki Ground alongside MLA Dr. M Ampareen Lyngdoh. The state government intends to modernize market infrastructure to boost trade and create new jobs.
This project stands as one of the state's largest individual market investments. Officials hope it transforms the site into a major commercial hub. It remains part of a wider state-funded urban infrastructure package. The government has earmarked Rs 130 crore for similar projects throughout Shillong. Another Rs 100 crore is currently flowing into the city via the Smart City initiative.
Multiple markets are getting a facelift. The Laitumkhrah Shopping Complex will cost Rs 38 crore, while the Polo Development project hits Rs 30 crore. The government is also spending Rs 14 crore on Laban Market and another Rs 14 crore on Iewduh. Smaller upgrades include Lumshyiap at Rs 2 crore and street vendor markets at Dhankheti, Barik, Brightwell Road, Motphran, and Polo for a total of Rs 6 crore.
Sangma outlined broader plans for the city. Workers are already developing Barik Point as an urban hub. A new four-lane road will eventually link Yojana Bhawan with Anjalee Point, Rhino Point, and Civil Hospital. Construction of the New Secretariat at Umsawli is 75 percent complete. The government expects to move there next year, opening up the old site for new pedestrian spaces and wider roads. "These projects can lead to a major transformation of Malki and adjoining areas over the next two to three years," Sangma said.
The Chief Minister urged contractors to meet quality standards and deadlines. He told local leaders, known as Rangbah Shnongs, to monitor the work closely. Future vending zones will prioritize cleanliness and basic facilities. Some spots may even host music under the Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project.
Separately, Sangma noted that the state’s Rajya Sabha MP will join the Joint Parliamentary Committee reviewing FCRA regulations. The committee meets on September 18. The state intends to voice concerns regarding how proposed amendments might impact Northeast communities.
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