SHILLONG: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma has strongly criticized the resistance from certain organizations and individuals against the state’s ambitious ropeway project, warning that stalling such initiatives directly harms the livelihood prospects of local youth.
Expressing deep regret over the continued protests, Sangma stated that the tourism department has already addressed and clarified concerns on nearly all fronts.
He emphasized that while the government remains open to discussing genuine issues backed by proper reasoning, opposing a project merely for the sake of opposing sets an unhealthy precedent for governance and politics.
Pointing out that expert agencies spent over two and a half years thoroughly vetting technical, environmental, and various other aspects, he noted that earlier clarifications issued by the Commissioner and Secretary of Industries and Tourism, along with the MTDC Managing Director, were accepted by concerned parties, leaving no ground to halt the project now.
Highlighting the economic stakes, the Chief Minister stressed that the ropeway is designed to elevate tourism and generate massive employment, offering hundreds and thousands of direct and indirect jobs for young people, meaning that current resistance effectively stands in the way of youth employment.
Questioning the sudden timing of the objections only after the project was awarded—despite over two and a half years of open planning—he reiterated the government’s readiness to address valid environmental matters through dialogue while staying focused on completing the project and securing jobs.
On related administrative matters, Sangma added that the state will follow due process of law regarding the actions of any KHADC officer who proceeded on legal provisions, maintaining that the law will take its own course.
(4FrontMedia news)
ALSO READ: Govt Threatens KHADC Over Ropeway Seals
