The Headman (Rangbah Shnong) of Mawpat, Shri Juda Wahlang, has voiced concerns over the construction of a park in Barik, Shillong, stating that it could worsen the already severe traffic congestion in the city. Shri Wahlang highlighted that while the government’s intention is to ease traffic, this project might have the opposite effect by attracting more people to the city center.
In his comments about Shillong’s traffic situation, Shri Wahlang said that the government’s plan to reduce congestion is counterproductive, as the park at Barik will draw more crowds to the area, increasing vehicle flow. He urged that, instead of focusing developments within the city, the government should encourage activities and projects outside Shillong to alleviate pressure on the overcrowded urban center.
Shri Wahlang suggested that the government establish parking zones in Mawiong for vehicles coming from Ri Bhoi, in Upper Shillong for vehicles from that direction, and in Laitkor for those coming from Jaintia Hills. He believes that decentralizing traffic in this manner would help reduce congestion. At present, with all vehicles directed into Shillong, the city’s traffic situation has significantly worsened.
