Move can be a game changer, feels CM
SHILLONG: Chief Minister Mukul Sangma has advocated the need for railway network even as he allayed fears of influx of illegal migrants in Meghalaya citing that the government was thoroughly committed to dealing with the issue.
Speaking to media persons here on Thursday, the CM expressed contentment over the fact that railway connectivity in Garo Hills has enabled farmers from North Garo Hills region to gain access to markets like Guwahati thus allowing them to interact with agro entrepreneurs.
The railway connectivity, Sangma felt, will also be a game changer as far as the tourism industry in the State is concerned.
“The farmers carry their consignment and sell it in Guwahati. This has generated a lot of opportunities for them to get better prices for their products,” he said.
“We have suggested that the whole connectivity should not just be with Guwahati but with other parts of the country as well. The proposal and the discussions (in this regard) are on,” he added.
Stating that there are certain glitches in land acquisition he maintained that the matter will be taken care of. “The railway line at Byrnihat has been worked out and the alignment has been finalised while survey is on for Shillong,” he said.
On firm opposition to railways by pressure groups, Sangma said that the government has already demonstrated its commitment to deal with the long pending contentious issue of influx and illegal immigration.
“I have approved a file which includes some proposals for spending on entry and exit points which is one of the measures along with several others including legislative ones (to arrest influx),” he said.
“We have created 39 extra posts of labour inspectors, recruitment and posting for which have already been taken care of. The district-level Task Force under the chairmanship of the deputy commissioners has already constituted their operation,” he added.
He informed that besides the comprehensive mechanisms, a number of legislative measures, the passing of two bills by the State Assembly, have been worked out to deal with the issues.
“There are challenges whenever you try to do something new but the most important thing is commitment level based on which we dismantle barriers to fructify our purpose. The comprehensive measures once put in place will be capable of dealing with the situation,” Sangma said.
He added that there are existing laws to empower and equip people with the right kind of wherewithal to deal with the challenge of illegal immigration.
“The fear of influx is the result of what has happened in the past. Therefore it is only imperative for us to ensure that there is a much more effective and comprehensive mechanism. Even though there is an apprehension expressed by certain quarters, we have taken them seriously,” the CM said.
Railway boost to tourism
On the tourism front, Sangma said the State should be seen as a destination for tourists and railway connectivity can be taken advantage of to promote high-end tourism.
“Railway connectivity to Shillong can be a game changer in our pursuit to promote the State as the most favourite destination,” Sangma said. “You have heard of Palace on Wheels. There can be something more of an exclusive product for Meghalaya and we would like to take advantage of this railway connectivity to promote high-end tourism,” he added.
He further said railway connectivity will cut down on the transportation cost of goods thus reducing the burden on the consumer.
“People travelling from Mendipathar to Guwahati with Rs 15 is a game changer,” he observed.