By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: Several prominent NGOs of Ri-Bhoi district have strongly opposed the State Government’s decision to construct the four-laning from the existing road at Umsning.
The NGOs including FKJGP, KSU, HNYF, CORP and RBYF have reiterated their demand for starting the four-laning through the proposed Umsning Bypass.
“We strongly oppose this decision of the Government to construct the four-laning from the existing road. We feel that PWD Minister HDR Lyngdoh has not done his homework before taking such a major decision,” KSU North Khasi Hills president Donkupar Sumer said while speaking to reporters on Wednesday.
Earlier, the PWD Minister had informed that the Government has decided to construct the four laning through the existing road at Umsning.
“The Government should understand that the NHAI had conducted the survey of the proposed Umsning Bypass in 2003. After completion of the survey the process of acquisition of land was initiated in 2008,” Sumer said, while adding that a public hearing was also held in January 2010.
“After completion of the various formalities, the district administration was finalising for payment of land compensation to the various land owners along the Umsning Bypass. At the very last minute, there were oppositions by certain groups with vested interests to construct the four laning through the proposed bypass,” Sumer said, adding that the PWD Minister has made this decision only to please a section of individuals with vested interest instead of looking at the larger interest of the people.
“The State Government would land in a big problem if the land owners along the Umsning bypass decided to approach the court,” he said.
According to KSU North Khasi Hills president, if the four laning is constructed along the existing road, the NHAI would have to pay a total amount of Rs 43 crore for the land compensation.
“But if the four laning is construted through the bypass, the NHAI would have to pay only Rs 13 crore as compensation,” he stated.
Replying to a query, Sumer said the NGOs would intensify their agitation if the Government refused to comply with their demands.
It may be mentioned that the NGOs have already called for a night road blockade on September 9.