Shillong: The Joint Action Committee Against Shillong Ropeway plans a peace rally for October 10. Protesters will gather at 11 am at Red Cross in Laban before marching to the project site. The decision followed a Friday meeting involving residents from Laban, Lumparing, Lawsohtun, Lumsohphoh, Madan Laban, and surrounding areas.
JAC leaders Deborah Marbaniang, OL Mawlong, Anita Kharmawphlang, and S Sawkmie are leading the charge. The committee demands an immediate halt to all work. They argue the current alignment through Lum Shyllong threatens vital water sources and the local environment. Residents also claim the government failed to conduct adequate public consultations.
Construction activity and tree clearing sparked local fury. This prompted officials to conduct a joint inspection of the site. The group insists the project needs a full review. They want the state to listen to those living in the path of the ropeway. Marbaniang stated, "The JAC has primarily opposed the proposed alignment through the Lum Shyllong area, raising concerns over its possible impact on water sources and the surrounding environment."
Disagreement remains strong. While the JAC fights the project, the Raid Laban Dorbar Pyllun supports the plan. The battle for the project's future continues.
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