SHILLONG: The MDA government has officially announced a landmark decision to completely withdraw the proposed project at the iconic Lumpondeng island in Ri Bhoi District. This major development follows a high-level meeting between government authorities and local headmen who met with Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong and the Director of Tourism to resolve the escalating tension.
During the discussions, the village leaders emphasized that while they generally support development, the overwhelming public opposition and the sacred nature of the Lumpongdeng island made the project untenable for the community.
Speaking to the press, government spokesperson and Cabinet Minister Weiladmiki Shylla clarified that the administration never intended to cause any destruction to the heritage site but had envisioned transforming the area into a beautiful tourist destination.
“Honouring the sentiments of the primary stakeholders, the government has acted swiftly to ensure that no construction will ever take place within the Lumpongdeng site,” Shylla said. While the Lumpongdeng segment is officially cancelled, the minister confirmed that the related development project at Orchid will continue as originally planned.
The government maintained that its initial goals were transparent and focused entirely on creating employment opportunities for local youth and boosting the economy through eco-friendly tourism.
Minister Shylla stressed that this withdrawal is not a sign of weakness or “surrendering” but rather a demonstration of a collaborative governance style that respects the will of the people.
He noted that unlike previous administrations that may have used force to push through projects, the MDA government prioritizes walking hand-in-hand with the public.
In a direct message to the leaders of the Green Tech Foundation, the minister announced that the government has formally accepted their demands.
He made an appeal to the activists who have been on a gruelling hunger strike since April 9 to finally end their protest and return home to their families in peace. This decision marks a significant victory for the environmental and local groups who have spent weeks fighting to preserve the sanctity of the Lumpongdeng island.
