SHILLONG, July 11: Trinamool Congress (TMC) state president, Charles Pyngrope, has welcomed the state government’s proposal to develop the Wah Umkhrah riverfront into a tourist destination but said critical questions remain unanswered, particularly regarding encroached land and the absence of a clear blueprint.
Referring to the state government’s announcement of a Rs 39-49 crore development project along the riverfront, Charles said that while the idea is encouraging, there must be transparency about the specific areas being targeted, especially those identified as encroached zones.
He pointed out that unless the government clearly identifies which stretch is being developed and how it intends to address encroachments, it is difficult to assess the project’s viability or impact. Charles also questioned whether the plan includes the demolition of illegal structures and urged the government to clarify whether it is indeed developing a “no man’s land”.
He said only when a detailed white paper or blueprint is released can the public and stakeholders make an informed judgment on the project’s direction and implementation.
Earlier, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma had stated that work on the Wah Umkhrah riverfront had already been sanctioned and was currently in progress.
The broader plan includes infrastructure upgrades around the Polo sports complex and adjacent areas as part of efforts to turn the river stretch into a prime tourist attraction.