Shillong, Mar 29: The Meghalaya Pradesh Mahila Congress has come out in opposition to the proposed development of a five-star luxury resort and spa at Lumpongdeng Island on Umiam Lake.
This proposal poses a serious threat to nearly 66 acres of ecologically sensitive land and risks irreparable damage to the pristine environment of Umiam Lake, one of Meghalaya’s most treasured natural assets, the Mahila Congress said in a statement. “The lake is not only a vital water resource but also a symbol of our state’s natural heritage and ecological balance,” it added.
The state government has signed an agreement with Indian Hotels Company Ltd (IHCL), which operates brands such as Vivanta and Taj, for development of Lumpondeng island (36 acres) on the Umiam Lake reservoir as well as redevelopment of the Orchid Lake Resort (30 acres) on the water’s edge.
Development must not come at the cost of environmental destruction, the statement continued. “We strongly object to any form of construction or commercial exploitation that could disturb the fragile ecosystem, pollute the waters, or undermine the livelihoods of local communities who depend on the lake,” the Mahila Congress added while calling on the government to immediately halt the project and prioritise “sustainable and community sensitive” alternatives.
