Community dialogue on market issues at balat, south west khasi hills

As part of the effort to identify key issues and challenges faced by stakeholders Balat market, in South West Khasi Hills, a Community Dialogue was held at the Office of the Syiem of Hima Maharram, Balat, on the 6th of October, 2017, as part of the Meghalaya Livelihood and Access to Markets Project (Megha-LAMP), under the theme, “existing challenges and ways forward for Balat market”.

Stakeholders who participated included shopkeepers, vendors, drivers, labourers, members of Balat Market Committee and officials of MBDA.

The key issues identified during the dialogues include -

Outcome of the dialogue

The community dialogue allowed the stakeholders to form their own action plans and facilitate their own development with the support of local NGOs and the government. The community felt that improved market infrastructure will attract more customers and enhance trade and business.

On the subjects of toilets, drainage and waste management systems, it was agreed that the stakeholders of Balat market, the residents of Balat and the Market Committee cooperate and participate with all concerned officials for the successful implementation of interventions.

The issue of erosion at the river bank has affected some residential houses and may also affect the market area. It was decided that experts on these matters will be consulted so as to determine the best way to address the problem.