Govt firm on relocation of hawkers from Khyndailad by Jul 22: Paul

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJuly 7, 2025

Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh on Monday said the government is firm on implementing the deadline of July 22 for the relocation of hawkers and street vendors from Khyndailad area. 

Lyngdoh, who is also the government spokesperson, expressed confidence in achieving complete compliance, citing adequate manpower and a strengthened case following a High Court order.

Speaking to media persons, the minister said, “The government expect complete compliance of the order for relocation of hawkers by July 22. We have adequate manpower and also the high court verdict has infact strengthen our case and by July 22, we expect complete compliance of all vendors. (Therefore) everything will be freeze on that day itself.”

Lyngdoh highlighted the government’s plans to pedestrianize key areas, including the stretch from Khyndailad to Jail Road and Umsohsun, with beautification and restricted access for residents with passes.

The first phase of the project is already underway, with the Meghalaya Urban Development Authority (MUDA) having necessary plans in place.

“There will be beautification. There will be pedestrianization and only those staying in that particular area will be issued passes, which will allow them to reach their homes and that also it will not be throughout the day. We will have entry timing and exit timing,” he said.

Asked, Lyngdoh said, “MUDA it is available now. Everything is already in place. This is phase-I. Once we are successful in phase-I, we will then take up the remaining phases.”

Hawkers and vendors who agree to relocate will receive a package of Rs 20,000, comprising an upfront payment of Rs 10,000 and a monthly allowance of Rs 2,000 for five months.

Lyngdoh emphasized that the government has been fair and invested in providing vendors with over a year’s time to relocate. 

“We have done much more than any government would have done. We have gone out of our way, invested in that space and given them more than a year’s time to relocate. We have been very fair,” he said.