SHILLONG: The Green-Tech Foundation has strongly refuted the Meghalaya Government’s recent clarification regarding the proposed luxury resort and spa project at Umiam Lake, particularly concerning Lumpongdeng Island.
In a press statement issued on April 1, the Foundation accused the State Government of “misleading and misinforming the public” over claims that circulating information about the project is inaccurate.
The Foundation questioned the government’s assertion that misinformation is being spread on social media, countering that it is instead the Tourism Department that has failed to present accurate details about the project.
According to the Foundation, the Lumpongdeng Island forms part of the 66 acres of land leased to the Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), under the Tata Group, for a period of 60 years. It further alleged that the project has been routed through a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), Umiam Hotels Private Limited.
Raising concerns over environmental and structural implications, the Foundation disputed the government’s claim that no permanent construction would take place on the island. It cited a Right to Information (RTI) reply from the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB), which reportedly indicates that the Consent to Establish (CTE) granted to the project includes plans for luxury villas, cafés, restaurants, and other facilities.
The organisation questioned how such developments could be carried out without permanent construction, calling for clarity and transparency from the authorities.
It also pointed out that the Tourism Department has yet to respond to a petition filed by the Foundation regarding the project, and that timelines have lapsed for replies to RTI queries seeking further details.
Alleging a lack of transparency, the Foundation claimed that officials were attempting to conceal key facts related to the project. It reiterated its opposition to the government’s position and described the official clarification as “misleading” and driven by “malicious intent.”
The proposed Umiam Lake project has sparked debate in recent weeks, with concerns being raised over environmental impact, land use, and transparency in the approval process.
