Shillong, Dec 5: Deputy Chief Minister in-charge of Urban Affairs, Sniawbhalang Dhar, held a meeting with a delegation of hawkers to discuss their relocation from Khyndailad to a new location. Following the meeting, the Dy minister expressed optimism about finding a solution that balances the needs of the hawkers and the public.
Speaking to the media, Dhar described the meeting as constructive. “They met me, and it was a very good meeting. They requested, ‘Sir, please give us (the hawkers) a good space,’ and I assured them not to worry. I told them, ‘I am with you. Please cooperate with the government. Together, we will try to find a good place for you. Be patient.”
Acknowledging potential compromises, Dhar added, “Maybe you won’t get exactly what you want, and we may not get exactly what we want. But through dialogue, we can find a suitable place. I requested their cooperation, and they are happy. Frankly speaking, they are our brothers and sisters. We cannot just throw them out. We will take a united decision with them after proper deliberation.”
The minister revealed that the government is in the process of identifying new locations for the hawkers. While some potential sites have been proposed, no final decision has been reached. “We have offered them three or four places, and they have not rejected them outright. They said they would discuss with their members. So, maybe they will say yes, or maybe no. We will decide together,” Dhar said.
On the issue of conducting a survey, Dhar admitted, “We are not focusing on the exact number of hawkers yet. Right now, we are identifying locations. Once that is done, we will differentiate between registered vendors and unregistered ones. The relocation will be limited to those officially registered.”
Responding to concerns about hawkers obstructing public walkways, Dhar emphasized the importance of regulation. “It’s not about the government being soft or hawkers being rough. We will regulate in a way that does not disturb pedestrians or the flow of people in crowded areas.”
On claims of hawkers’ representatives who claimed that there are over 5,000 hawkers in Shillong, Dhar clarified that the government has records of only 600-700 registered hawkers. “There might be more, but we rely on the official data. A survey will be conducted periodically to ensure proper documentation,” he said.
The minister reiterated the government’s commitment to finding a fair solution. “This is a sensitive issue, and we need to think carefully. Dialogue and cooperation will lead us to a suitable decision,” he concluded.
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