GUWAHATI: Digholi Pukhuri wore a new look on Wednesday, November 27 after the Guwahati Municipal Corporation cleared the area of food stalls.
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Over 100 popular food stalls of Khao Galli along Guwahati’s Digholi Pukhuri were evicted to pave the way for beautification of the iconic pond.
The GMC action came after the Assam Tourism Development Corporation asked the civic body for removal of the stalls in order to protect the beauty and heritage of the location.
In a letter dated November 22 to the Municipal Commissioner, Secretary to the Tourism Department Padmapani Bora said, “However, in recent times, it has been seen that significant number of street vendors started occupying the front side of the pond which has become a growing concern. These vendors, with their makeshift stalls, not only disrupt the visual appeal of this historic site but also contribute to pollution and traffic congestion in the area, significantly impacting the beauty and sanctity of Digholi Pukhuri."
“It is also to be noted that Assam Tourism Development Corporation has received section (sic) for beautification of the boundary walls of Digholi Pukhuri under NEC and soon going to execute the project reflecting its heritage value. Presence of such activities in the front of the pond may adversely affect the smooth execution of the project too. In light of the above, you are requested to take immediate action to remove these street vendors from the area in front of Digholi Pukhuri, “ the letter further stated.
However, Bora also suggested to the GMC to look for alternative space for the vendors, likely in designated markets or zones.
Earlier in October, to facilitate the construction of the Dighalipukhuri-Noonmati flyover, it was decided to shut down the Khao Galli
and remove the vendors from the area leaving them staring at loss of livelihood.
Now, It remains to be seen whether these vendors will be eventually relocated to another location for their business.