Shillong, April 14: The Directorate of Tourism has reiterated its willingness to engage in dialogue with the Green Tech Foundation (GTF) despite recent tensions surrounding the proposed project at Lumpongdeng.
Director of Tourism, B.L. Pakyntein, informed that the department had received communication from the Magistrate on duty indicating that GTF members were interested in holding discussions. Accordingly, a meeting was initially scheduled for 2:00 PM. However, following a request from the Foundation for written communication, a formal notice was issued and the meeting was later rescheduled to 5:00 PM due to time constraints.
She stated that the notice was subsequently returned by the GTF with a precondition that the FIR filed against its members be withdrawn before any talks could take place. Pakyntein clarified that the Tourism Department has no authority over the FIR, as it falls under the jurisdiction of the District Administration and must follow due legal process.
Reaffirming the department’s position, she said discussions can proceed if the GTF agrees to participate without conditions, and appealed to the Foundation to withdraw its protest and resolve the matter through dialogue.
Pakyntein also noted that the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, and Commissioner & Secretary have already clarified that no permanent construction will be allowed at Lumpongdeng, in line with the project agreement.
She further acknowledged that the GTF had earlier submitted a petition to the Tourism Minister raising concerns about environmental protection and proposed construction in the area. Copies of the petition were also forwarded to the Chief Secretary, Forest Department, and the Deputy Commissioner of Ri-Bhoi district.
Following a review, the department emphasized the importance of involving local stakeholders and referred the matter to the Deputy Commissioner of Ri-Bhoi to convene a joint meeting with the Dorbar Shnong and GTF. However, GTF reportedly did not attend the meeting.
In a subsequent meeting with village representatives and Rangbah Shnong, issues related to livelihood, employment, and environmental protection were discussed. The Deputy Commissioner assured that these concerns would be addressed and communicated to the Tourism Department.
Pakyntein stated that discussions with local stakeholders showed alignment with the department’s objectives of sustainable development, livelihood generation, and environmental conservation in the Lumpongdeng area.
She added that the Dorbar Shnong is expected to submit its conditions in writing, focusing on employment opportunities, livelihood support, and preservation of the environment. The department is willing to formally accept these conditions, as they are in line with its vision.
Suggestions such as plantation of herbal and organic trees were also welcomed, as they would enhance ecological value and tourism potential.
Expressing concern over the ongoing hunger strike by GTF members, particularly the health of its chairman, Pakyntein urged the Foundation to respond positively and work towards an amicable resolution through dialogue.
