Opposition to the Shillong Ropeway Project is set to intensify as the Joint Action Committee (JAC) prepares to hold a public rally on October 17, despite recent discussions with Meghalaya government officials. The committee has reiterated its demand for the complete cancellation of the project rather than changes to its design or other concessions.
JAC secretary Dr. Linda Marbaniang said the meeting with the Tourism Department had not changed the committee’s position. The planned demonstration will begin at Laban Last Stop and proceed towards the ongoing project site. The committee has raised concerns about alleged tree felling at Shillong Peak and its potential impact on water sources and the local environment.
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Key Facts
- Location: Shillong, Meghalaya
- Protest date: October 17
- Organiser: Joint Action Committee (JAC)
- JAC representative: Dr. Linda Marbaniang
- March route: Laban Last Stop to the ongoing ropeway project site
- Main demand: Cancellation of the Shillong Ropeway Project
- Primary concern: Environmental protection and preservation of water sources
JAC Confirms Rally After Government Meeting
The Joint Action Committee has confirmed that its planned rally against the Shillong Ropeway Project will proceed on October 17.
The announcement follows a meeting between the committee and Meghalaya government officials. The state Tourism Department organised the discussion under the chairmanship of Commissioner and Secretary R.M. Kurbah.
Senior officials from several departments also attended the meeting. However, the discussions failed to change the JAC’s opposition to the project.
According to Dr. Linda Marbaniang, the committee will continue to demand cancellation instead of negotiating modifications or other concessions.
Protest March Planned Towards Project Site
As part of the demonstration, the JAC plans to march from Laban Last Stop to the ongoing ropeway project site.
The rally aims to highlight the committee’s concerns and press the government to reconsider the project.
Moreover, the committee maintains that environmental protection should remain a priority when authorities make decisions about major infrastructure projects in Shillong.
Tree Felling and Water Sources at the Centre of Opposition
Dr. Linda Marbaniang expressed concern over alleged tree felling at Shillong Peak. She warned that such activity could threaten local water sources and affect the surrounding environment.
“Our priority is to protect our water sources and ensure rainfall. We do not want the Shillong Ropeway Project,” she said.
The committee argues that protecting natural resources should take precedence over the proposed development. However, the environmental impact concerns cited by the JAC have not been independently established in the information provided.
The dispute highlights the challenge of balancing infrastructure development with environmental conservation in and around Shillong.
Shillong Ropeway Debate Continues
The JAC’s decision to proceed with the rally signals that opposition to the project remains unresolved despite the government’s discussions with the committee.
The group has made clear that it wants the project scrapped entirely. It has not indicated that it would accept changes to the existing plan as an alternative.
Meanwhile, the October 17 rally is expected to bring renewed attention to questions about the project’s environmental implications and the protection of Shillong’s water resources.
As Meghalaya’s capital and a major urban centre in the Northeast, Shillong depends on responsible planning to balance development needs with the preservation of its natural surroundings.
Questions and Answers
What is the Shillong Ropeway Project protest about?
The JAC opposes the project and demands its complete cancellation, citing concerns about tree felling, water sources and environmental protection.
When will the rally take place?
The public rally is scheduled for October 17.
Who is organising the protest?
The Joint Action Committee (JAC) is organising the demonstration.
Where will the march begin?
The march is planned to start at Laban Last Stop and proceed towards the ongoing project site.
Did the government meeting resolve the dispute?
No. According to JAC secretary Dr. Linda Marbaniang, the meeting with government officials did not change the committee’s position.
Why is the issue important for Meghalaya?
The dispute raises questions about how Shillong can pursue infrastructure development while protecting its environment and water resources.
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