Meghalaya Tourism Minister defends Shillong Peak ropeway project

Meghalaya Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh has defended the proposed Shillong Peak ropeway project, stating that the government cannot roll back the initiative after formal agreements and clearances have been secured. Lyngdoh noted that the project has been under consideration for decades to address long-standing tourist difficulties, such as restricted access and identification checks required when passing through Air Force land.

The minister emphasized that the project is legally binding, citing a 2022 agreement with the local dorbar and a 30-year lease signed in 2023. He further stated that no-objection certificates have been received from the Airports Authority of India, the Air Force, and the Army. Addressing environmental concerns, Lyngdoh presented maps indicating that the ropeway alignment does not pass near major water sources or streams, asserting that the project site is located 3.15 km away from the sacred Shillong Peak.