MEGHALAYA CM LAUNCHES ‘MY CITY’ BEAUTIFICATION DRIVE
New Delhi, Dec 19, 2025 : Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Wednesday launched the City Beautification Drive under the ‘My City’ campaign in Mawlai, marking a step towards strengthening community-led urban development in the state.
The initiative seeks to work closely with Dorbar Shnong institutions to create clean, litter-free and more liveable neighbourhoods, reinforcing the government’s emphasis on participatory governance and grassroots engagement.
As part of the programme, the Chief Minister distributed beautification grants ranging from Rs 75,000 to Rs 1 lakh to 60 localities, supporting community-driven efforts to improve public spaces.
Sangma also inaugurated a CCTV surveillance system at Mawlai Mawroh and formally launched the beautification drive through a symbolic painting at Mawlai Bridge in Iewrynghep, covering areas under Mawlai Mawroh and Mawlai Iewrynghep.
Addressing residents, the Chief Minister described the initiative as a unique “CM Connect” programme that promotes two-way communication between the government and citizens. Emphasising participatory democracy, he said meaningful governance emerges through interaction, dialogue and action on public feedback.
He stressed that civic transformation requires collective responsibility, noting that sustained change is possible only when the government and society work together.
Following the inauguration of the CCTV network at Mawlai Mawroh, Sangma said work at another 25 locations is nearing completion, with the remaining sites expected to be ready by January. This will allow the immediate rollout of the second phase of the surveillance project.
Speaking on the ‘Paint My City’ campaign, the Chief Minister announced the transfer of funds and ceremonially handed over cheques to community representatives. Highlighting the importance of incremental development, he said even small interventions can create a significant impact on urban improvement efforts.
Chief Secretary Shakil P. Ahammed said community participation multiplies the impact of government initiatives. Referring to Meghalaya’s achievements, he expressed confidence that Shillong could emerge as the cleanest city in the country under the Chief Minister’s leadership, with active support from Rangbah Shnong and local communities.
In line with the CM Connect approach, Sangma also interacted with residents of Mawlai Mawroh. During the interaction, Arjun Dkhar, Secretary of Dorbar Shnong, Lummawbah, requested the restoration of the old British Bridge at Umshyrpi and the adjoining stream.
Responding to the request, the Chief Minister assured a visit to the site and directed officials from the Urban Affairs Department to conduct a preliminary assessment.