Silchar markets set for clean makeover under SMC’s new vision

Way2barak, July 24 : In a significant push towards creating a cleaner, safer, and more organised urban marketplace, the Silchar Municipal Corporation (SMC), under the visionary leadership of its Commissioner, Srishti Singh has initiated a major collaborative drive involving market stakeholders to address long-standing issues of waste management, parking congestion, and unregulated vending in the city’s commercial hubs.

A high-level meeting was held on thursday at the conference hall of SMC office where representatives from the Market Association, municipal officials, and other key stakeholders came together to candidly discuss the pressing concerns affecting the daily functioning and hygiene standards of Silchar’s markets. The session was presided over by Commissioner Singh, whose inclusive and proactive approach has earned appreciation across civic circles.

In her address to the gathering, Commissioner Singh stated, “Our markets are not just centres of commerce they are the living, breathing heart of Silchar’s economy and culture. It is our collective duty to ensure they remain clean, accessible, and vibrant. Today, we are not here to point fingers, but to take ownership together vendors, shopkeepers, administrators, and citizens to transform our marketplaces into spaces we can all take pride in.”

She further emphasised the importance of maintaining civic discipline and urged all stakeholders to adopt a mindset of shared responsibility. “Improper dumping of garbage, illegal encroachments, and lack of parking order not only inconvenience the public but reflect poorly on our collective image as a city. We have to treat this not as a one-time clean-up, but as a sustained behavioural change,” she asserted.

The meeting touched upon several key issues, most notably the recurring problem of open dumping in and around market areas, which often leads to unhygienic conditions, foul odour, and health hazards. Parking chaos especially during peak hours was flagged as another major concern, leading to severe traffic bottlenecks and difficulty for shoppers and pedestrians alike. The unregulated spread of street vendors without demarcated zones was also discussed, with calls for streamlining vending practices without affecting livelihoods.

Commissioner Srishti Singh assured all present that the SMC would extend full administrative support in the implementation of necessary infrastructure and policy changes but called upon the Market Association to play an equal role in enforcement and awareness. She proposed that regular joint inspections, the formation of a cleanliness task force, and the identification of designated vending and parking areas would go a long way in restoring order.

“This meeting is only the first step. We will continue to hold regular reviews and follow-ups. Every action item discussed today will be monitored, and timely execution will be our priority,” she affirmed.

Participants in the meeting expressed satisfaction with the open and constructive nature of the dialogue and welcomed the Commissioner’s initiative in fostering a collaborative spirit. There was a strong consensus on implementing agreed-upon action items with urgency and sincerity. Departments concerned with waste management, urban planning, and traffic regulation were assigned responsibilities with clear timelines for execution. The meeting was also attended by Executive Officer,SMC ,Shri Nabuttam Sharma ,AUAS .

The initiative marks a turning point in Silchar’s urban governance model one that places equal emphasis on planning, participation, and performance. Under the leadership of Srishti Singh, the Silchar Municipal Corporation continues to lead from the front, showing that good governance is not only about rules and regulations but about active listening, timely action, and a clear vision for the future.