Shillong: The Joint Action Committee (JAC) is accusing the State Tourism Department of subverting grassroots democracy. Officials allegedly pushed the Shillong Ropeway Project through without seeking informed consent from the people of Lum Shillong. Residents claim they were kept in the dark about the construction plans from the very beginning.
Public outrage ignited only after locals spotted crews cutting down trees at the site. The JAC now demands full accountability and strict adherence to proper legal processes. They argue that meaningful objection remained impossible because the government failed to disclose project details to the community.
West Shillong MLA Paul Lyngdoh pushed back against these claims on Friday. He insists the state secured all required environmental clearances and statutory permissions before breaking ground. He pointed to the timeline as evidence of transparency. "Why are objections surfacing more than two years after the project was initiated?" Lyngdoh asked.
The foundation stone for the ropeway was laid by the President of India in January 2024. Lyngdoh maintains the project launched following specific requests from the Riat Laban Dorbar Pyllun and currently holds the support of local MLA Sanbor Shullai. He claims the active construction phase is already providing new jobs for local workers.
Comments