Meghalaya wlecomes New Year

Shillong, Jan 1 (UNI) Thousands of Shillongites surged onto the streets and ushered the New Year with colourful fireworks,while a few swimmers plunged into freezing rivers to "celebrate" the occasion.

In the state capital, people took part in an open-air concert 'Live and Let Live' at Khyndai-Lad, in downtown Shillong.

US-based Difference United and other popular local bands Colours, Akhia, Snowhite, Gracyl Ropmay, Christine Pyngrope and Rana Kharkongor performed at the concert.

At the stroke of midnight, fireworks went off amidst a cheering crowd, who had gathered there to welcome the new year.

Over a thousand couple sashayed at the Jawaharlal Nehru Sports' Complex to a DJs nite.

Further away from the city centre, a group of swimmers plunged into the icy Sangmein River at Upper Shillong at the stroke of midnight to welcome 2008.

Emerging from the freezing cold water Michael Syiem muttered that he felt ''refreshed''.

In other parts of the state, similar New Year celebrations were being held.

UNI BS LL RN1745