Shillong: The Meghalaya government will allow a new inspection of proposed facilitation centres at Umling and Ratacherra. Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong confirmed the district administration holds the authority to conduct these checks if stakeholders feel the previous assessment missed the mark. He noted that there is no objection to bringing in other departments if necessary to clear up lingering doubts.
Tynsong wants these sites to be more than just checkpoints. He envisions hubs featuring food courts and rest areas for motorists. Travellers should have places to grab tea and snacks. The government hopes to provide proper stopping amenities for everyone on the road.
These concessions follow vocal opposition from the Khasi Students’ Union. Former KSU general secretary Donald V. Thabah voiced deep frustration after a September 16 meeting with the state. Thabah argued the initial plan was inadequate, stating, "The Tourism Department could not speak on behalf of other departments."
The union specifically questions the site size. While the government proposed bumping the area from 1,000 to 4,000 square metres, the KSU remains skeptical that this suffices for all entrants. The union demands the centers serve everyone, including labourers, students, and workers, rather than just tourists. They fear funneling every person through one tourism counter will create long, slow queues. The KSU maintains that departments like Health and Education need their own space at these border points.
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