SHILLONG: Commissioner and Secretary for Tourism, R. M. Kurbah, IAS, has clarified that no construction work has begun at the lower terminal site of the proposed Shillong Ropeway Project in Laban, which is government property.
Responding to the closure of the ropeway project office by the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC), Kurbah explained that the site is being used as a temporary camp for preliminary activities such as soil testing and ground levelling, not for actual construction.
Kurbah emphasized that all necessary environmental and social safeguards are being followed as required by the New Development Bank, which supports the project.
She confirmed that no digging or foundation work has commenced, and the office closure on government premises has prompted a police complaint.
The project’s licensing process is ongoing, with a work order issued in September 2025 and multiple NOCs obtained from concerned Dorbars.
The contractor’s application for a trading licence is under review, and all relevant procedures are being followed.
Kurbah also noted that public consultations were held with stakeholders in 2022, and concerns about water sources near Lum Shillong have been addressed, as the project site is 3.5 km away.
She reiterated that only preliminary work has been conducted and that due process will continue as the matter develops.
(4FrontMedia news)
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