Shillong, Nov 12: Meghalaya Chief Minister, Mr. Conrad K. Sangma, today, launched the Repair, Renovation and Operationalization Scheme of Tourism Properties For the 39th National Games, 2027 and distributed the Financial Assistance under Enhancement of Wayside Amenities Scheme to beneficiaries in a program held at the Banquet Hall of Pinewood Hotel, Shillong.
Speaking during the occasion, Chief Minister, Conrad K Sangma, said the scheme addresses two constraints faced by roadside businesses, limited access to capital and reluctance to invest because of the seasonality of tourism.
“Meghalaya’s attractions are spread across all 12 districts. Visitors moving from Shillong to Sohra, Dawki, Nongstoin, Jowai or Tura need reliable places to eat, rest and use a clean toilet along the way,” he said and added that wayside amenities are crucial both for the travelers as well as the tourists. “An upgraded stopover with clean toilets, safe parking and local food improves visitor experience and safety,” he added.
Financial assistance of ₹5 lakh each is being released to the owners of 47-48 shortlisted wayside amenities, a total of over ₹2 crore. The beneficiaries are existing restaurants, dhabas, cafés, eateries and roadside stopovers on national highways, state highways and district roads across nine districts of the state.
The assistance is for upgrading what travelers use on the road, seating and kitchens, clean toilets, marked parking, signage, lighting and the overall look of the premises. Every beneficiary is a local owner already running a business. The grant builds on operations that have proven demand rather than creating new ones from scratch.
The beneficiaries are expected to complete the approved works on schedule, maintain cleanliness, hygiene and safe parking, and keep toilets open and usable for travelers. Operate the amenity for at least five years, as committed under the scheme and feature local cuisine and produce, and display Meghalaya Tourism signage and helpline details for visitors.
