SHILLONG: The Meghalaya government is under fire as the Joint Action Committee (JAC), supported by Green Tech Foundation and women’s groups, leads sustained protests against the proposed ropeway project at Lumshyllong.
The controversy intensified on November 9, with environmental activists alleging government opacity, ecological risks, and legal violations.
Green Tech Foundation President H. Bansiewdor Nonglang accused authorities of withholding construction blueprints, revealing that plans for a four-storey lower terminal and a three-storey upper terminal were kept secret despite prior agreements recognizing Lumshyllong as a vital water catchment.
Nonglang challenged officials to publicly debate the project’s legitimacy and provide full disclosure.
Activists warn that Lumshyllong’s fragile slopes feed key water networks, including the Wah Umkhrah and Wah Umshyrpi, and claim the project risks exacerbating Shillong’s water scarcity.
Nonglang referenced a 2007 Meghalaya High Court ban on construction and a 2021 NGT stay order, questioning how recent approvals were granted despite legal and environmental hurdles.
Allegations of financial inducements and disregard for the Meghalaya Ropeway Act 2022—specifically, the lack of comprehensive public consultations and grievance redressal—have further inflamed the situation.
Protesters also cited health risks faced by elderly women on the frontlines, blaming the government’s silence for escalating tensions.
Nonglang demanded direct engagement from Tourism officials, calling for immediate transparency and public dialogue before the situation worsens.
(4FrontMedia news)
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