Shillong, April 20: The Meghalaya government has decided to exclude Lumpongdeng Island from the proposed 5-star luxury resort project at Umiam, following strong opposition from local stakeholders and pressure groups. The decision was announced by cabinet minister and MDA government spokesperson Wailadmiki Shylla after a meeting chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong with a delegation of the Synjuk Ki Rangbah Shnong of Ri Bhoi district.
According to officials, the government will amend its agreement with Umiam Hotel Pvt Ltd (Taj Resort and Spa) to formally exclude the 36-acre Lumpongdeng Island from the project. A formal communication to this effect was issued by Tourism Department Joint Secretary C.S. Khongwir to Green Tech Foundation (GTF) chairman H.B. Nonglang, who has been on a 12-day hunger strike, as well as to SRSRB chairman B.B. Makdoh.
Speaking to reporters, Shylla said the government has decided to withdraw tourism-related activities from Lumpongdeng Island after concerns were raised by local stakeholders during the meeting. However, he clarified that the larger resort project will continue at the existing Umiam Orchid Lake Resort site. “The government has decided to withdraw the tourism projects from Lumpongdeng Island after concerns were raised. But we remain firm that the project will continue on the existing Umiam Lake Resort property,” Shylla said.
He reiterated that the government had initially maintained that no permanent construction would take place on the island and that it was intended only for experiential tourism. Emphasising the importance of public support, Shylla said the government chose to exclude the island after taking into account the sentiments of the people. “We want whatever we do to have the support of the public. Therefore, we felt it was best to withdraw Lumpongdeng Island from the project while continuing development at the existing site,” he added.
Shylla also appealed to members of the Green Tech Foundation to call off their hunger strike, stating that the government had responded to their demands. “We have no hidden agenda. We request the GTF members to end their protest as we have listened to their concerns,” he said.
Highlighting the government’s objective, Shylla said the project aims to generate employment opportunities for local youth. “We cannot provide government jobs to everyone. Bringing in a reputed group like Taj is aimed at creating jobs and boosting the local economy,” he stated.
Responding to criticism that the government had bowed to pressure, Shylla said the move reflects responsiveness rather than weakness. “This is not about bending down. It is about listening to the aspirations of the people. Our government respects public sentiment,” he said.
On whether the issue was being politicised ahead of the Shillong MP by-election, Shylla acknowledged that some groups may attempt to take advantage of the situation.
Meanwhile, the Tourism Department confirmed that the concession agreement dated February 25, 2026, will be amended to reflect the exclusion of Lumpongdeng Island. It added that the 5-star luxury resort will now be developed within approximately 30 acres of land surrounding the existing Umiam Orchid Lake Resort.
