Shillong, Nov 20 — Tourism Minister Timothy D Shira has downplayed criticism over the decision to host the Cherry Blossom Festival at Polo Ground, saying that complaints are inevitable “whether something good is done or bad.”
Speaking to reporters, Shira said people should not be overly alarmed by those opposing the venue choice. “When we do good, there will be critics; when we do wrong, there will still be critics,” he remarked, stressing that the use of Polo Ground is only temporary until a proper festival venue is ready at New Shillong.
He maintained that the festival has been highly successful, drawing large numbers of visitors from outside the state and boosting tourism. On the Megong Festival, he added that the government is developing a permanent site and that this year’s edition will again be held at the under-construction venue.
The Cherry Blossom Festival, held on 14 and 15 November, drew tens of thousands of people but also triggered complaints from residents over traffic congestion, disruption to regular movement and loud music affecting neighbourhoods around Polo.
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