SHILLONG, FEB 19: Trinamool Meghalaya Congress (TMC) president Charles Pyngrope has expressed skepticism about Shillong’s claim to be a ‘smart city’, citing inadequate infrastructure and unfulfilled projects.
“When we say Shillong smart city, what are the factors that comprise it to name it as smart city? One is safe drinking water, one is affordable public health care and one is clean sanitation – these factors, your proper roads, lighting, wifi connections – there are so many factors that constitute a smart city,” Pyngrope told journalists on Wednesday.
He pointed out that despite government claims, the city’s infrastructure remains lacking.
“If you see the condition of the roads… they have been dug up to raise water pipes but they have not been resurfaced,” he said, highlighting the need for accountability and transparency in project implementation.
Pyngrope suggested an audit to assess the progress of the smart city project and identify areas for improvement.
“It will be good if they do an audit to find out what has actually been done, what is left to be done and how do we do it,” he said.
While acknowledging some improvements, such as garbage collection, Pyngrope emphasized the need for sustained efforts and accountability.
“You cannot take off the ground flying, you have to start working first, at least start the work, that’s the point.”
