Shillong, April 20: The Synjuk ki Rangbah Shnong Ri Bhoi District (SRSRBD) has expressed support for the construction of a proposed five-star hotel at Orchid Umiam, while opposing the inclusion of Lumpongdeng Island in the project.
In a memorandum submitted to the state government on Sunday, the Synjuk objected to the agreement signed between the Tourism Department and Umiam Hotels Private Limited (UHPL), which involves leasing 36 acres of land at Lumpongdeng for 60 years.
The submission comes amid an ongoing indefinite hunger strike by the Green Tech Foundation (GTF), which entered its 12th day on Sunday. The Women’s of Ri Bhoi District (WORD), led by Mira June Myrsing and Bindas Syiem, have also been participating in a daily 12-hour hunger strike in solidarity with the GTF leaders.
Speaking to the media, Synjuk Secretary Panwanbor Sylliang said that during a recent meeting with Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, the organisation suggested that the government proceed with the five-star hotel project at Orchid Umiam instead. He added that the Deputy Chief Minister clarified that the hotel would indeed be constructed at Orchid Umiam. Regarding Lumpongdeng Island, Sylliang said the Synjuk urged the government to keep the project in abeyance for now, to which Tynsong reportedly agreed.
The Synjuk further stated that the project is expected to benefit local residents, particularly across five shnong areas in Ri Bhoi district. It maintained that while there are concerns over Lumpongdeng, the broader project should not be scrapped entirely, as it holds economic potential for the district. Sylliang also pointed out that Ri Bhoi has several alternative locations suitable for tourism development, including Nongmahi and Byrnihat, and stressed the importance of retaining the project within the district, especially given the presence of an airport in the region.
He further noted that the agreement with UHPL to develop the Taj Hotel aims to boost organic agricultural produce in the area. With nearly 90 percent of Ri Bhoi residents dependent on farming, the Synjuk believes the project could create new market opportunities for local farmers. The organisation also expressed appreciation to the MDA government for taking steps toward the development initiative.
