Social Welfare Minister Kyrmen Shylla today said that a balance between coal mining and environment was needed in East Jaiñtia Hills even as he said that the district has huge potential for tourism.
He was speaking at the concluding function to celebrate World Tourism Day organised by Mutong Tourism Promotion and Environment Protection Society.
“Most people thought that East Jaiñtia Hills is only about coal mining. It is not like that. This district has so many beautiful destinations for tourists which need to be developed and promoted,” Shylla said.
Shylla also said that he was working to get road connectivity to a place known as Phan Syiar near Mutong which is an attractive tourist spot. He also assured steps to develop the infrastructure near the waterfalls at Khaddum village under Narpuh Elaka.
“I have compiled all details about all these places and submitted them to Chief Minister Conrad Sangma who has assured to send officials to survey these spots,” Shylla said.
Urging local villagers to set up guest houses at Mutong in order to accommodate visitors and tourists, Shylla said the government would cooperate with them to promote tourism in the area.
On coal mining, Shylla said that people engaged in coal business need to strike a balance between livelihood and environment.
“Coal mining should not be at the cost of environment. In areas where there are no tourist spots, coal mining should go as per approved mining plans whereas in areas where there are tourist spots, tourism should be encouraged and promoted. Both should go hand in hand without destroying nature,” he said.
According to Shylla, the recent approval of mining plan for some coal blocks would provide jobs to people dependent on coal mining.
