The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) has urged the Public Works Department (PWD) to remove Durga Puja pandals erected along public roads in Meghalaya, citing concerns over traffic congestion and inconvenience to commuters.
In a letter addressed to the PWD Chief Engineer, the union called for stricter enforcement of regulations governing temporary structures along roads maintained by the department. It said the demand followed complaints from stakeholders and members of the public about difficulties caused by the roadside installations.
“These structures have been causing difficulties for the smooth movement of vehicles and pedestrians, particularly in areas where road space is already limited,” the KSU said, emphasising that public roads should remain accessible and that their safety and convenience must not be compromised.
The union called on the department to take appropriate action against road obstructions and introduce measures to prevent similar issues in the future.
The appeal comes days after the Hynñiewtrep National Youth Front (HNYF), East Khasi Hills, raised similar concerns over Durga Puja pandals erected on major roads and public thoroughfares in Shillong during the festive season.
In a representation submitted to the Deputy Commissioner of East Khasi Hills on September 29, HNYF East Khasi Hills president Steveson Raymond Khryiem highlighted the potential for roadside pandals to disrupt traffic at several locations across the city.
The organisation identified RR Colony-Rynjah, Laban, Polo, Rilbong and the Garikhana-Umshyrpi stretch as areas where temporary structures could restrict vehicle movement and contribute to congestion.
Clarifying its position, the HNYF said it had no objection to Durga Puja celebrations but maintained that busy public roads should not be used for pandal construction when doing so inconveniences commuters, pedestrians and local residents.
The organisation urged the district administration to ensure that major roads remain accessible throughout the festive period and that temporary structures do not disrupt normal traffic movement.
The representations from the KSU and HNYF have brought renewed attention to the management of temporary festival structures in Shillong, with both organisations calling for measures to balance religious celebrations with public convenience and road safety.