Shillong, February 18: The Meghalaya government has assured the Assembly that it will examine in detail the proposal to carve out the Shillong Urban Agglomeration from East Khasi Hills district and constitute it as a full-fledged district.
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| Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma speaks in the Assembly during a discussion on the proposal to create a separate district for Shillong Urban Agglomeration. (Image: Meghalaya Legislative Assembly Channel) |
Responding to a discussion raised by MLAs in the House, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said the matter is significant and touches upon key principles of administrative convenience, governance efficiency and improved public service delivery.
He noted that as the state capital continues to expand in size, complexity and population, it is important to assess whether existing administrative structures are aligned with present and future needs. The proposal, he said, warrants careful scrutiny given its wide-ranging administrative and financial implications.
Explaining the concept, the Chief Minister referred to the Census 2011 definition of an urban agglomeration as a continuous urban spread comprising a statutory town and adjoining outgrowths or contiguous towns with a minimum population of 20,000. The Shillong planning area, covering about 290.51 sq km across parts of East Khasi Hills and Ri-Bhoi districts, includes the Shillong Municipal Board, Shillong Cantonment Board, 10 census towns and 54 villages.
As per Census 2011, the Shillong planning area has a population of 4,22,372, with 3,54,759 residing in the urban agglomeration. Population projections indicate steady growth up to 2041, underscoring the need for coordinated and planned development.
Sangma highlighted that Shillong has a unique administrative structure involving the municipal board, the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC), traditional institutions, and multiple state agencies, making coordination essential for effective governance.
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He informed the House that the creation of a new district requires evaluation based on criteria such as area, population, distance from headquarters, public convenience, economic conditions, communication facilities and availability of funds. Any such proposal must be examined by a high-level committee headed by the Chief Secretary.
Describing the decision as “complex,” the Chief Minister assured members that the government is actively pursuing the matter and will examine it in a positive and time-bound manner, keeping in mind administrative efficiency, financial impact and improved service delivery.
He also stated that discussions will be held with concerned MLAs before arriving at a final decision.
