SHILLONG, Dec 20: Envisioned as water harvesting project and later turned into a tourist spot, the Umpohliew-Eitksar viewpoint has been a blessing to many job card holders.
The picturesque viewpoint was opened for the public in the year 2018 and generated an annual income of Rs 1,80,000, of which funds have been utilised to build the infrastructure.
But most importantly, the job cards holders benefitted highly from the project with 260 households being able to earn a living from the 100 days’ scheme.
Speaking to reporters, Headman of Nongthymmai-Lumthangding, T Dkhar, said that the Umpohliew-Eitksar viewpoint was constructed under MGNREGA in 2012-2014 at a cost of Rs 31 lakh.
“The Village Employment Council (VEC) had envisioned that it was meant for water harvesting purposes but later thought of beautifying it. We plan to make it more beautiful in the coming days and have approached the Tourism department to get the necessary infrastructure. Plans are in the offing for homestays, restaurants etc”, the village headman said.
Dkhar further informed that the joint secretary of the Ministry of Rural Development has also visited the place.