Shillong, Apr 9: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma broke his silence over the controversial luxury tourism project on Umiam Lake today, categorically promising that no permanent structures will be built on Lumpongdeng Island.
Green-Tech Foundation (GTF) has been protesting a planned development that will see a five-star resort built by Indian Hotels Company Ltd (IHCL), which owns the Taj brand of hotels, among others, on Lumpongdeng and the existing Orchid Lake Resort on the shore of the lake.
A previous clarification by the Tourism Department had sought to assure the public that no permanent structures would be built on Lumpongdeng. However, GTF questioned this by citing Right to Information (RTI) replies it had received from the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board that stated that Umiam developers have consent to establish luxury villas, cafes and restaurants on the island, which GTF argued must be permanent.
As opposition to the project is only growing, the CM addressed these concerns directly today.
“In the agreement signed, the government and Tourism Department have explicitly stated that no permanent structure will be allowed on the island,” Sangma said.
The CM explained that temporary structures, such as shamianas, pandals and stalls, will be permitted for specific events and will be dismantled after, ensuring no impact on the island’s flora and fauna.
Sangma also addressed concerns about Forest Department permissions, stating that the Tourism Department took a firm stance against permanent construction, despite environmental laws allowing it in certain sections.
“I hope this clarification addresses the concerns of citizens,” Sangma said, urging people to disregard misinformation about the project.
