‘Govt can’t say no to everything’
By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Dec 28: The UDP on Thursday made it amply clear that the state government cannot say no to everything since the introduction of goods trains will only benefit the people of the state.
“We are for goods train. We cannot just say no to everything. We need to look at what would be beneficial for the people of the state because improved connectivity and transportation will really enhance setting up of facilities and marketing avenues for villagers,” UDP general secretary Jemino Mawthoh said while talking about opposition from various quarters to the introduction of railways in Meghalaya.
Outlining his party’s stand on the matter, Mawthoh said, “We should welcome goods trains. We believe in connectivity and improving the infrastructure as far communication is concerned because improved connectivity will be of great help to the people of the state from the economic point of view.”
He pointed out that at a time the whole world is getting connected and when the entire country is getting connected, Meghalaya should also reap the benefits of connectivity.
“From the beginning we have been supporting introduction of goods trains. Let it come because it is going to be beneficial for the people of the state,” he added.
On the introduction of passenger trains, he said, “We have not really discussed about passenger trains. Let us take one step at a time. If goods trains can be there nothing like it.”
Mawthoh who is the Adviser to the state government (Planning) said, “Connectivity is very important; we really need to think seriously if we want to develop the state. Connectivity has to be very strong and since the economy is the backbone of development and growth, better communication can be the foundation of a solid economy.”
Speaking about the benefits of goods trains, he said, “There is nothing wrong with goods train and most stakeholders will also agree with that. Think of the transportation costs involved in ferrying goods in and outside the state. I think everyone will agree to goods trains. The only issue here is introduction of passenger trains.”
The pressure groups in Meghalaya are opposed to the project as they fear the railways would bring outsiders into the state. The operation of goods trains is also being opposed because of the perception that passenger trains would follow.
The KHADC has also declined to give a no-objection certificate to the Byrnihat-Shillong railway project.
The railway projects in the state continue to remain stalled although the state government has been reiterating its commitment to taking all stakeholders in the Khasi Hills region on board for the way forward.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma and the entire government machinery have been maintaining for years that the concerns of the pressure groups opposing the railway projects in Meghalaya would be addressed.
But there has hardly been any effort from the government to call the pressure groups for talks.
Except for Shillong, the remaining Northeastern states are on the verge of seeing their capitals added to the country’s railway grid.