Meghalaya government and KHADC dispute Rs 151-crore Shillong ropeway project
The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council sealed the project site over alleged licensing violations, prompting a legal standoff with the state government.
The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) sealed the lower terminal site of a proposed Rs 151-crore ropeway project at Lum Shyllong on October 27, according to News18. The council's enforcement wing, led by Inspector Kordor Synrem, removed project staff and seized materials, alleging that the joint venture of KEC International and Tantia Construction started work without a mandatory trading licence.
The Meghalaya government has opposed the sealing and requested the KHADC to remove the locks and return the seized materials. The Tourism Department also filed a police complaint against Inspector Synrem, though no arrests have been made. Tourism Department Commissioner RM Kurbah stated in a communication on October 30 that the premises belong to the state government and were being used for preliminary preparations rather than commercial activity.
The Joint Action Committee (JAC) Against the Shillong Ropeway Project is leading protests, demanding the project be scrapped or relocated. The committee argues that construction could threaten wildlife habitats, forest cover, water sources, and the local ecosystem.
Voice of the People’s Party (VPP) chief Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit has defended the KHADC inspector and warned that his party may initiate contempt of court proceedings. Basaiawmoit alleged that the Tourism Department, Forest Department, and leaders of Raid Laban are violating a Supreme Court judgment.
The Meghalaya government maintains the ropeway will improve access to the Shillong Viewpoint, reduce traffic congestion, and generate employment. Officials stated the alignment will not affect the Umiew catchment, which supplies the Greater Shillong Water Supply Scheme.