Reiterating its opposition to introduction of railways, the Jaiñtia Students’ Union (JSU) has said connectivity without the inner line permit is pointless.
Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar had recently indicated that the state government has no intention to drop the idea of railways in the Khasi and Jaiñtia Hills region.
The JSU in a statement said only some businessmen will benefit from railways and it is even unlikely to bring down price of essential commodities.
“The cost of goods in Assam, where railway plays a role in transportation, is more expensive compared to the price of goods in Meghalaya and one must know that even the cost of cement is higher in the production state of Meghalaya than in Assam so the point to bring railway to ease transportation of cement to other state will only benefits businessmen not to the people of Meghalaya,” the union said, adding, “There is no point in establishing a railway connection as long as the ILP is not granted to our State.”
“This suggests that the introduction of railways might not necessarily lead to more affordable goods in our region and introduction of railway infrastructure might improve accessibility but it will only increase migration or movement of people from other areas. Such influx can have social, economic, and environmental impacts on the state,” it claimed.
It further suggested for consideration of perspectives of different stakeholders and an open dialogue to find a balanced solution that addresses the concerns of the local communities and ensures sustainable development in the region.
