NONGSTOIN, Sep 19: Nongstoin MLA Macmillan Byrsat has sought the attention of Chief Minister Conrad Sangma in developing the tourism sector in Nongstoin, which, according to the legislator, has reaped the benefits of several schemes barring those concerning tourism in the past three years.
In a letter to the chief minister, the MLA, however, pointed out that the Tourism department is on the track to develop Nongkhnum River Island, the second-largest river island in Asia after Majuli in Assam which has brought name and fame to Nongstoin and West Khasi Hills district.
Talking more about the island, Byrsat said that the Nongkhnum River Island is bounded on the western and southern side by Kynshi River, the largest river of West Khasi Hills, and by Namliang River on the eastern and northern side, and it consists of three major waterfalls — Thum, Weinnia and Langshiang falls — besides picturesque landscapes, a beach, the sacred grove and unique rock formations near Thum Falls.
The MLA also talked about the negative feedback from tourists on the lack of development of the area including good quality roads, proper lodging, restaurants et al. He says that due to such drawback, the island, despite all the pros, sees quite low footfall of visitors.
“With tourism sector being one of the main sources of revenue of the state and in view of several natural tourist spots in Nongstoin, there is a need to focus on this (tourism) sector which will not only generate revenue but create employment,” the Nongstoin MLA said.
He maintained that a course of plan to develop Nongkhnum is on track but the government approval and funds are being awaited.