Shillong residents issue ultimatum over proposed ropeway project

The Joint Action Committee (JAC) Against Shillong Ropeway has issued a 10-day ultimatum to the Meghalaya government to either scrap or relocate a proposed ropeway project in Laban. The committee, representing residents of Laban Pyllun, has threatened intensified agitation, including hunger strikes, citing concerns over environmental damage, tree felling, and the potential drying up of local water springs.

Protesters allege that the community was not properly consulted and that no public hearing was held before construction began. They have also questioned the validity of necessary permits, such as the No Objection Certificate (NOC) and trading licenses. The JAC described the project site as a sacred area and urged the government to preserve it.

In response, Tourism Department Director Brenda Lee Pakyntein stated that the department has met with the JAC to clarify issues. Officials maintain that necessary permissions, including an NOC from the Dorbar Shnong, were obtained and that the tender process followed proper protocols. While the department claims to have engaged traditional village authorities to mobilize residents for hearings, the JAC maintains they were not properly informed.