Shillong, Apr 11: Village leaders near the Lum Pongdeng island have denied giving approval for the proposed Taj Resort and Spa project, contradicting a statement made by Ri-Bhoi district Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal.
In a joint clarification, headmen from Mawlyndep, Umiam, Umniuh, Umsawkhwan and Umbir villages emphasized that they haven’t taken a final stand on the project, pending review of official documents like the Detailed Project Report (DPR) and project blueprint.
“We’ve not received any relevant documents and remain in the dark about the project’s details,” the leaders stated, adding they’ll decide only after thorough examination.
They stated that it came as a shock to them to learn that the Deputy Commissioner, had told the media that local villagers have not opposed the project and are supportive of the initiative.
They village elders said that during the meeting with the Deputy Commissioner and officers of the Tourism department that they had asked for the detailed project report, blue print, the agreement signed of the project and also assurance that villagers residing along the Umiam will benefit from it.
They also said that they wanted the documents so that they can have a basic understanding and inform the villagers about the project.
The village leaders stressed though they aren’t opposed to development but sought clarity from authorities on the project’s impact on their communities and environment.
They stated that the government had claimed that the proposed project will not have any impact on the environment in the area but they wanted every assurance in “black and white”.
However, the villages said that they have nothing to do with the protest of the Green Tech Foundation opposing the Taj Resort and Spa at Lum Pongdeng island.
On Friday, the Deputy Commissioner had informed that the meeting was productive, with village representatives expressing support for the project.
He said that village leaders expressed hope that the project would generate employment opportunities for local youth and contribute to the overall economic development of the region.
