Shillong, July 16: The Shillong Municipal Board (SMB) has directed all eligible street vendors operating in Laitumkhrah, Dhankheti, Malki, Laban, Redcross, Barik, Phan Nonglait Park, Lumshatsngi and Rilbong to relocate to designated vending zones on or before August 17, 2026, warning that action will be taken against those who fail to comply.
In a notice issued on Thursday, the SMB said an in-situ survey of street vendors was conducted by the Town Vending Committee under the provisions of the Meghalaya Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Scheme, 2023. Following the completion of the survey, along with the claims and objections process, the final list of eligible street vendors was approved by the Provisional Town Vending Committee.
The Board stated that, based on the recommendations of the Town Vending Committee, the Government of Meghalaya has notified two vending zones for vendors operating in the affected areas:
- SMB Parking Lot, Dhankheti
- Compound of Brightwell Bungalow
According to the notice, the local authority is developing these vending spaces and providing basic amenities for vendors.
The SMB further pointed out that, under a government notification dated February 20, 2026, the stretches of roads in Laitumkhrah, Dhankheti, Malki Point, Barik, Phan Nonglait Park, Redcross, Laban and Lumshatsngi have been declared “No Vending Zones” in the interest of smooth traffic flow and public convenience. As a result, all street vending activities in these areas are prohibited.
All vendors holding valid Certificates of Vending (COVs) have been instructed to shift to the designated vending zones by August 17.
The Board warned that vendors who continue to operate in the notified no-vending zones after the deadline will face action and penalties under the Meghalaya Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Scheme, 2023, and any goods found being sold or displayed in prohibited areas will be removed in accordance with the law.
