Nongpoh, Apr 24: The Ri-Bhoi Youth Federation (RBYF) held a special meeting today to deliberate on the state government’s proposal to establish the Taj Resort and Spa at Umiam, following growing public queries regarding the organisation’s stand on the issue.
The government had to reverse its decision to use Lumpongdeng Island on Umiam Lake for the project due to environmental fears. However, the rest of the resort project will continue on the existing Orchid Lake Resort, which will be renovated for the purpose.
Speaking to the media, RBYF president Bipul Thangkhiew stated that the federation has not taken a final decision to either support or oppose the proposed project. However, the organisation has placed clear conditions before the government, insisting that two long-pending demands must be fulfilled first, namely the implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) and the expansion of the Umroi Airport.
Thangkhiew said that promoting tourism would have little meaning if the state lacks proper infrastructure, particularly an airport capable of accommodating larger aircraft. At present, most tourists are forced to land in Assam, resulting in economic benefits flowing to the neighbouring state instead of Meghalaya.
Thangkhiew also pointed out that the Meghalaya Assembly had passed a resolution in favour of implementing ILP on December 19, 2019, but it has yet to be enforced as the matter remains pending with the central government.
He added that once these demands are fulfilled, the RBYF would be the first to welcome the Taj Resort project and other tourism initiatives. However, until then, the government must prioritise addressing these key issues.
