Shillong, Feb 19: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Thursday defended the Ride Shillong electric-bike initiative after opposition VPP legislator Adelbert Nongrum likened it to “building a bridge with no river” and demanded accountability.
“The objective of urban affairs and of government as a whole is to find ways to address traffic and sustainability, where we encourage sustainable transportation,” Sangma told the Assembly.
“The thought process going on (in the mind of the member) is what restricts us from innovating. As a government and society we need to try, innovate, and find ways.”
He stressed that no state funds were used.
“I made it clear in this reply that none of the government’s money was spent; this was a grant made by a German agency because we want cycling and walking promoted. When that happens, congestion will go down.”
Sangma added that 1,600 people have already used the bikes and that New Shillong roads will include cycling tracks. “Yes, the member’s suggestions are welcome, but looking and criticizing what the government does is a mindset that must change. If you find problems, give suggestions — I will be happy to incorporate them.”
Earlier in his reply, Deputy Chief Minister in-charge Urban Affairs Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar confirmed there was no government-sanctioned fund for the project, adding that 20 electric cycles were rented under the Sustainable Urban Mobility – Air Quality, Climate Action and Accessibility (SUM-ACA) initiative, implemented with support from Germany’s GIZ. The contractor assigned is Chartered Bike Pvt Ltd of Ranchi, Jharkhand.
Dhar said current Shillong roads have no dedicated cycling lanes, but all new Shillong city roads will.
“We have discussed with PWD; cycling tracks have been provided in all roads in New Shillong.”
When Nongrum asked whether the CM’s launch ride had used a dedicated lane or a cleared main road, Dhar replied that “there was no fixed road — during the launch, all users were allowed subject to traffic rules.”
Asked about expanding the project, Dhar said the suggestion was “well taken.”
