JAC vows to continue protests against Shillong ropeway project
The Joint Action Committee will continue its agitation until the government scraps the project to protect the U Lum Shyllong catchment areas.
The Joint Action Committee (JAC) against the Shillong Ropeway Project and for the Protection of U Lum Shyllong Catchment Areas has declared it will continue its agitation until the government withdraws the project entirely, according to The Shillong Times.
Committee general secretary Linda Marbaniang said on Tuesday that the group has agreed to attend a meeting convened by South Shillong MLA Sanbor Shullai on Wednesday. Marbaniang noted that Shullai was the only elected representative to invite protesters for discussions.
Marbaniang stated that the government has not responded to concerns despite five days of continuous protests. She said that several MLAs and MDCs have visited the protest site and extended support to VPP MLA Adelbert Nongrum.
The JAC general secretary warned that ropeway construction could threaten the U Lum Shyllong catchment area, specifically its natural springs and water sources. She claimed some natural springs have already dried up.
Marbaniang also alleged that the public hearing process failed to provide a meaningful platform for opponents to raise objections. She said the government must listen to the pleas of the women.
The JAC will consult its members before deciding its next course of action, but reiterated that scrapping the project is the only acceptable outcome.