The Shillong Municipal Board (SMB) has issued a stern warning to shop owners and commercial establishments in the city against displaying goods and wares outside their premises, terming it a direct violation of municipal regulations and an encroachment on public pathways and roads. In an official notice released this week, the SMB stated that such practices are in clear breach of the terms and conditions outlined under the Shillong Municipal Bye-Law 136, framed under the Meghalaya Municipal Act, 1973 (as amended).
The unauthorised use of public spaces, the board said, is not only illegal but is also causing inconvenience to the general public. The SMB has directed all shops and business establishments to immediately stop displaying goods outside their designated premises. The board warned that any violation of this directive would lead to the forcible removal of goods at the shop owners’ expense, along with legal action, which may include the suspension or cancellation of their business licenses.
The move comes with the backing of the Deputy Commissioner of East Khasi Hills and the Director of Urban Affairs, Government of Meghalaya, both of whom have reportedly concurred with the SMB’s enforcement measures. Residents and civic groups have long raised concerns over the growing encroachment of footpaths and roads by commercial setups, especially in busy market areas. The latest directive is expected to bring some relief to pedestrians and improve urban mobility in the city.