SHILLONG: Community leaders from Elaka Nongkhlieh in East Jaintia Hills have voiced their support for the proposed Shree Cement Ltd. plant, emphasizing the potential benefits of development, employment, and improved educational opportunities for the area.
Speaking at the Shillong Press Club on Wednesday, Elaka Nongkhlieh Secretary F. Bareh said the leadership welcomed the project, expecting it to contribute to local progress and job creation.
Bareh noted that the Elaka has been engaging with Shree Cement on employment, infrastructure, and financial commitments since the project’s inception, with all issues discussed collectively before the Dorbar.
“We want development in our area and opportunities for our people,” Bareh said, urging residents to support efforts to enhance the community and enable better education for their children.
N. Sukhlain, Dalloi of Elaka Nongkhlieh, reiterated that the community had reached a collective decision to welcome Shree Cement.
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He appealed to organizations and political leaders statewide to support the Elaka, highlighting the challenges residents face compared to other regions of Meghalaya. Among other demands, the Elaka has requested that the company establish a school from Nursery to Class 12 to improve local education access.
On the opposition to the project, Bareh acknowledged that dissenting views are valid and said the Elaka is open to hearing concerns if clearly communicated.
However, he strongly denied allegations that project supporters had blocked roads and condemned any such actions, saying they would tarnish the reputation of the entire Elaka.
Addressing claims of low attendance at the public hearing, Bareh explained that the distant and inaccessible venue made it difficult for many residents to participate, but insisted the Elaka had encouraged all residents—regardless of their stance—to attend.
(4FrontMedia news)
