Shillong, Apr 15: The Directorate of Tourism has reaffirmed its willingness to engage in dialogue with the Green Tech Foundation (GTF) to resolve the ongoing impasse over proposed projects at Lumpongdeng.
Director of Tourism, Brenda Lee Pakyntein in a press statement expressed concern for the health of GTF members currently on a hunger strike and urged the organization to return to the negotiating table for an amicable resolution.
She said that the foundation reportedly set a precondition that an FIR filed against its members must be withdrawn before any discussion takes place.
However, Pakyntein clarified that the department has no jurisdiction over the matter, noting that the FIR falls under the purview of the district administration and must follow the standard legal process.
Addressing the core grievances regarding the Lumpongdeng area, Pakyntein reiterated assurances previously made by the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, and Commissioner & Secretary. She maintained that in strict accordance with the project agreement no permanent construction will be permitted at the site.
This follows a petition submitted by the GTF to the Tourism Minister and other high-ranking officials raising alarms over environmental norms and potential construction in the region.
In an effort to include local stakeholders, the department had previously directed the Deputy Commissioner of Ri-Bhoi to convene a joint meeting with the GTF and the local Dorbar Shnong.
Pakyntein said that while the GTF did not attend that session, subsequent consultations with village representatives and the rangbah shnong have been productive. However she stated that local leaders raised essential concerns regarding livelihood, employment, and nature preservation—objectives that Pakyntein stated are fully aligned with the department’s vision for sustainable development.
The Director noted that the dorbar shnong is set to submit its specific conditions in writing, which include requests for employment opportunities and ecological conservation efforts.
According to the Director, the department has also welcomed community suggestions such as the plantation of herbal and organic trees to enhance the area’s tourism potential and ecological value.
