By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 25: BJP leader AL Hek on Friday said that the BJP, along with all other political parties, should arrive at a consensus on the long-pending issue of railway projects in the Khasi and Jaintia Hills.
Earlier this month, the state government constituted an all-party committee to deliberate over the matter of railway connectivity in the state. However, even after 20 days of its formation, the committee has yet to hold any discussions.
Hek stressed the importance of a unified approach, stating, “There should be consensus on whatever decision is taken regarding the railway issue.”
The all-party committee is also expected to engage with pressure groups and other stakeholders before arriving at a final decision on the railway projects.
While Mendipathar in the Garo Hills is already connected by rail, several pressure groups in the Khasi Hills have consistently opposed railway expansion, fearing it could lead to large-scale influx into the state.
The Ministry of Railways had recently asked the Meghalaya Government to return the funds sanctioned for a railway project in the Khasi Hills, and the government has initiated the process of returning the amount.
Meanwhile, Hek also informed that work on the proposed Veterinary Hospital in Upper Shillong is likely to commence soon.
The hospital, which will be constructed in phases, is expected to cost around Rs 94 crore in total.