Shillong, April 21, 2026: The Meghalaya government has decided to lower the bidding rate for the newly constructed Polo market complex after repeated tenders failed to attract any bidders.
The market, which was inaugurated last year, is yet to become operational due to the lack of interested parties. Deputy Chief Minister in-charge Urban Affairs, Sniawbhalang Dhar, said the government had floated tenders three to four times, but no one participated in the process.
“We advertised multiple times, but nobody showed interest. It appears the rate fixed by the government may be a bit high,” Dhar told reporters. He added that the government is now considering reducing the rate to encourage participation.
According to Dhar, the Polo market is currently under the management of the Shillong Municipal Board, and operations will begin only after a suitable party is selected through the tendering process.
He assured that the bidding system will remain transparent, stating that the contract will be awarded to the highest bidder.
The Deputy Chief Minister also indicated that if the revised rates fail to attract bidders, the government may explore alternative approaches to operationalise the market, keeping in mind the interests of local people.
Meanwhile, regarding the newly inaugurated parking lot near the Additional Secretariat building, Dhar said the government is yet to finalise its operational model, adding that it will likely be managed by the concerned department.
