Shillong Ropeway Row: JAC Seeks Relocation, Wider Public Consultation

Shillong, October 21: The Joint Action Committee (JAC) opposing the proposed Shillong Ropeway Project has urged the Meghalaya government to relocate the project and ensure wider public consultation, arguing that the concerns of Shillong residents, particularly those dependent on local water sources, must be taken into account.

The demand came in response to a government letter dated October 19 inviting the JAC to attend a briefing on the project scheduled for October 22.

Addressing reporters on Wednesday, JAC Secretary Dr Linda Marbaniang objected to the proposed meeting, saying that restricting the consultation to residents of Laban Pyllun would exclude other communities affected by the project.

She called for representatives from across Shillong, including Iewduh, Mawkhar, Jaiaw, Motphran, Riatsamthiah, Wahingdoh, Umsohsun, Laitumkhrah, Malki and Upper Shillong, as well as residents of Lawsohtun and Ri Bhoi, to be included in the discussion.

“Water is not needed only by the people of Laban Pyllun. All residents of Shillong depend on water, and their concerns must be heard,” Marbaniang said, urging the government to postpone the meeting until all stakeholders could participate.

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She also questioned the exclusion of Lawsohtun, describing the area as closely connected to neighbouring localities, and demanded that its residents be invited to the consultation.

The JAC further appealed to the government to reconsider the project’s location, citing concerns over the protection of natural resources and the need to safeguard the city’s water sources.

“We request you to relocate this project to another place where it is most needed,” she said, alleging that the government’s approach risked dividing communities instead of bringing them together for meaningful discussion.

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Emphasising the importance of environmental protection, Marbaniang said development should not come at the cost of natural resources and people’s basic needs.

“Water is a God-given gift to humanity. You cannot take away our right to live. Please hear our voice and reconsider your decision,” she added.