Shillong November 20: The plan for redevelopment of Khyndai Lad and convert into a pedestrian-centric commercial hub will take shape and move in full swing only after the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly is shifted to the New Shillong Township at Mawdiangdiang.
Deputy Chief Minister in-charge Urban Affairs, Sniawbhalang Dhar told reporters on Thursday that the beautification project was not stalled but strategically aligned with the relocation of the Assembly, a move that will free up prime central land for urban redesign.
“We are in the process of beautifying it. Even the old Assembly is yet to shift to the new location from here (Khyndai Lad). As soon as the Assembly is shifted, we will go for the full beautification of that area,” he said.
Dhar informed that the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the Khyndai Lad redevelopment is almost ready and this includes dismantling the old Assembly structure to make way for modern walkways, pedestrian paths, tiled corridors, and landscaped public spaces.
“The DPR has been prepared and it is a very nice one. The old Assembly will be dismantled as per plan — which is yet to be finalised — to create walkways and footpaths. Everything is in the DPR,” he added.
The Deputy Chief Minister also said the government has taken note of concerns raised by residents over potential disruptions during construction, especially regarding road closures, and assured that implementation will be calibrated to minimise inconvenience.
“Some residents requested that if we close the road, they may face problem. We are discussing it and will fix the timing after both the government and residents agree,” Dhar noted.
In a separate update, Dhar explained the progress of the MTC Shopping Mall project, stating that it is now 85–88% complete and the project is expected to complete fully by next year.
“The targeted date of completion should be by next year. Let us wait till the actual date comes before saying anything,” he said.
The Khyndai Lad beautification plan is part of the government’s wider urban renewal agenda for Shillong.
The construction of the new Assembly building is going on at Mawdiangdiang and the project has faced multiple delays over the years.
Meghalaya is yet to have its own Assembly building till date after the beautiful heritage structure at Khyndai Lad was reduced to ashes by an inferno 24 years ago on January 9, 2001.
