SHILLONG: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Thursday firmly refuted rumours surrounding the proposed Lumpondeng project, reiterating that the government has no plans to undertake any construction in the ecologically sensitive area.
Addressing the media amid ongoing protests, the Chief Minister urged the public to rely on verified information and not be misled by misinformation. He clarified that the government has repeatedly explained that no development activity will be carried out at Lumpondeng Island.
Responding to the hunger strike led by the Chairman of the Green Tech Foundation (GTF), now in its eighth day at Malki, Sangma expressed concern over the activist’s health and appealed to him to call off the fast. He added that despite the refusal to be hospitalised, medical teams and authorities are closely monitoring his condition.
Clarifying the project details, Sangma stated that the proposed five-star hotel will not be located at Lumpondeng, but at the existing Orchid Umiam site. He emphasised that the government had already taken a conscious decision—well before the issue gained public attention—not to undertake any construction at Lumpondeng in order to preserve its natural beauty.
On demands to scrap the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), the Chief Minister highlighted that the project, backed by the Indian Hotels Company Limited, involves an investment of approximately ₹300 crore and is expected to position the site as a premier tourism destination in the Northeast and beyond.
He stressed that the project would significantly boost the local economy, generate employment, and enhance Meghalaya’s tourism profile.
Outlining the broader tourism vision, Sangma said the government is pursuing a multi-pronged strategy beyond high-end hospitality. This includes ten five-star hotels currently in the pipeline, support for around 3,000 homestays benefiting local households, and assistance to youth through schemes such as CM Elevate, under which approximately 1,000 commercial vehicles are being provided.
Additionally, the government is extending support to restaurants and Self-Help Groups (SHGs), while allocating nearly ₹40 crore to assist around 7,000 musicians and performers engaged in the tourism sector.
In a pointed remark, the Chief Minister urged the public to adopt a balanced perspective, noting the contradiction between demanding employment opportunities and opposing projects that generate livelihoods.
He also called attention to the long-term benefits expected by 2027, when the upgraded airport infrastructure is projected to become fully operational, further boosting tourist inflow.
Reiterating the government’s openness to dialogue, Sangma assured that environmental concerns at Lumpondeng will be safeguarded while the state continues its push to emerge as a leading tourism hub in the region.
