Shillong, October 21: The Joint Action Committee (JAC) Against Shillong Ropeway Project and for the Protection of Lum Shyllong Catchment has demanded the resignation of seven Rangbah Shnong (headmen), while questioning the authority of the President and Secretary of the Riat Laban Dorbar Pyllun to permit the auctioning of land for the proposed ropeway project.
Addressing a press conference at the Shillong Press Club on Wednesday, members of the JAC displayed placards calling for the seven headmen to step down and questioning who had authorised the President and Secretary of the Riat Laban Dorbar Pyllun to auction the land. The committee reiterated its opposition to the proposed Shillong Ropeway Project at Lum Shyllong, expressing serious concerns over its potential impact on the catchment area and the interests of local residents.
The JAC also rejected the State Government’s invitation to attend a meeting scheduled for October 22 to discuss issues surrounding the project, insisting instead that the government organise a public hearing to allow residents to openly express their views and concerns. The committee maintained that a public hearing was necessary to ensure that the voices of the affected communities were heard before the project proceeded.
JAC leaders further claimed that they would mobilise lakhs of people to participate in such a hearing to demonstrate the extent of public opposition to the proposed ropeway project.
Reaffirming its stand, the committee insisted that the government must address the concerns raised by residents, particularly regarding the protection of the Lum Shyllong catchment area, and ensure public participation in decisions concerning the project.
