From Our Correspondent
Tura, 8: The A’chik Holistic Awakening Movement (AHAM) demanded an investigation as well as answers from the state government over the long-delayed Sakal A•duma Eco-Resort project—an initiative that once promised to elevate sustainable tourism in Meghalaya.
The group stated that it had received numerous complaints over the delay in completion of the project whose foundation stone was laid by Chief Minister Conrad Sangma in the presence of NPP Ministers Thomas Sangma and Marcuise Marak in 2021.
“At the time, the project was hailed as a pioneering effort to integrate eco-friendly tourism with the rich cultural and natural heritage of the Nokrek Biosphere Reserve.
However, more than three years later, the promised transformation is yet to materialise leaving the public disillusioned and demanding urgent answers,” AHAM president Georgeprince Ch Momin said.
Calling it a ‘broken promise’, AHAM said the project was supposed to provide a state-of-the-art facility that would create employment, attract tourists, and contribute to the conservation of the Nokrek Biosphere Reserve.
“With substantial public funds allocated to the project, the people had the right to expect a transparent and efficient implementation. However, all we have received are complaints of the project either being abandoned or slow in progress,” added Momin.
One of the key concerns raised by AHAM is the current status of the project and the reason for the delay. Further, it also sought to understand as to what happened to the funds that were provided.
“The government must clarify how much money was disbursed and provide a detailed breakdown of expenditures. Without transparency, suspicions of financial mismanagement or diversion of funds continue to grow. Further, who is responsible for the delay,” asked AHAM.
Demanding immediate government action, the AHAM has sought a comprehensive status report.
“The government must issue a public report detailing the current state of the Sakal A•duma Eco-Resort project, including timelines, financial statements, and challenges faced. An independent investigation should be launched to verify whether there has been any mismanagement or misappropriation of public funds. If discrepancies are found, strict action must follow.