Meghalaya to proceed with Shillong ropeway project despite opposition
Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh ruled out relocating the Rs 150-crore initiative, alleging political motives behind the resistance.
Meghalaya Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh said on Thursday that the state government will continue with the Rs 150-crore Shillong ropeway project despite facing opposition. According to The Assam Tribune, the minister refused to move or cancel the plan, stating that the project cannot simply be relocated to a different area.
Lyngdoh suggested that the resistance against the project might be politically motivated due to the upcoming Assembly elections. He claimed that opponents might try to create instability by making it appear as though the MDA-II government failed to deliver promised projects.
Addressing environmental concerns, the minister noted that Shillong Peak is located more than 3.15 km from the proposed sites. He also mentioned that the government is prepared to take stakeholders to Sikkim to observe how ropeway infrastructure functions.
Regarding the trade licence, Lyngdoh stated the executing company applied in May and expects the permit soon. He also noted that the lock on the company's premises was removed on Wednesday, after the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) had locked the site on October 27 over missing clearances.
The Shillong Peak Ropeway Project aims to connect Madan Laban with the Shillong Viewpoint to ease traffic and boost tourism. Funding includes Rs 80.89 crore from the New Development Bank and Rs 70.11 crore from the PM-DevINE scheme.
Construction of the project started on October 15, 2025, and is scheduled for completion by October 2028.