Shillong: Shillong’s government is exploring a new strategy to manage urban traffic by transitioning roadside parking into a paid digital system. The proposal suggests deploying local youths equipped with Point of Sale machines to oversee designated spots and collect fees, shifting away from free public street use to a regulated revenue model.
The initiative was discussed during a recent traffic task force meeting, where officials framed the plan as a dual solution for reducing city congestion and creating local employment opportunities. Revenue generated from the parking fees would be shared among the workers and relevant stakeholders to maintain transparency and prevent the mismanagement of funds.
NPP MLA Ampareen Lyngdoh, who participated in the discussions, highlighted that the project faces significant social and logistical hurdles. Officials have yet to finalize how these workers will be selected or how the system will operate without creating local tension. A major point of contention involves the traditional parking habits of Sunday churchgoers, which may clash with the new fee structure.
Regarding the uncertainty surrounding this transition, Lyngdoh stated, “There are many issues that need to be clarified, including what will happen to churchgoers who park their vehicles outside churches on Sundays.” The task force is currently weighing these community concerns against the urgent need for traffic regulation before moving forward with the proposal.
Comments