SHILLONG, JUL 15: The state government has finalized a division of work for street lighting in Shillong and started a drive to clear hanging wires from major parts of the city, Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar said on Wednesday.

Dhar, who holds the Urban Affairs portfolio, said maintenance will now be split between the Municipal Board, Power Department and Smart City to avoid overlap.

“We have decided that street lights in some areas will be maintained by the Municipal Board. Part of the proposals and maintenance will also be handled by the Power Department and Smart City,” he said.

The DPR for the project is ready and consultations with headmen are on to identify priority locations.

“We are working on the first phase. Almost all-important areas will get lights and will be maintained by the Municipal Board. Some areas will be taken up by the Power Department,” Dhar said.

He added that areas of responsibility will be clearly demarcated to prevent confusion.

On hanging wires, Dhar said the Chief Minister has directed the Urban Affairs Department to act.

“We will focus on all important areas where there are too many hanging wires. We will relocate them properly and neatly so that our city looks clean,” he said.