SHILLONG: The Meghalaya government will move forward with the ₹151-crore Shillong ropeway project despite mounting resistance, Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh announced.
Warning that attempts to derail the project could harm Meghalaya’s investment climate and future economic prospects, Lyngdoh stressed that portraying the state as unstable could deter central government, external agency, and private sector support for years to come.
Lyngdoh attributed some of the opposition to political maneuvering ahead of the 2028 Assembly elections, asserting that critics aim to undermine the MDA 2 government’s record.
He confirmed that all necessary clearances have been obtained, and the company implementing the project has applied for a trade licence, with approval expected soon.
He ruled out relocating the project, stating that ropeway infrastructure cannot simply be moved.
Addressing environmental concerns, Lyngdoh clarified that Shillong Peak is over 3.15 km from the project and offered to take stakeholders to Sikkim to see similar ropeways.
He noted that despite repeated efforts, public consultation attendance was low, but those present signed in agreement.
He cited a Union Ministry notification from April 2022 exempting aerial ropeways from certain environmental assessments, provided safeguards are met.
Lyngdoh reiterated the government’s commitment to the project, emphasizing its role in boosting tourism, while keeping channels open for dialogue with stakeholders.
(4FrontMedia news)
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