By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Sep 10: The Lumpongdeng Island at Umiam Lake will now be a part of the upcoming five-star hotel project in the area as Maitshaphrang Tourism Promotion Group Chairman, Michael Syiem, has relinquished his claim over the island.
Announcing this, Tourism Minister, Paul Lyngdoh, on Wednesday informed that Syiem had reached a mutual agreement with the Tourism department to facilitate the construction of the iconic hotel.
Earlier this year, Syiem had announced a one-week sit-in demonstration at the Main Secretariat premises to oppose the government’s decision to evict them from Lumpongdeng Island without providing financial relief.
Lumpongdeng Island, located in the middle of Umiam Lake, is known for its serene environment, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers, picnics and bird-watching.
Accessible only by boat from the Umiam Lake Water Sports Complex, it features a wooden boathouse that offers panoramic views and a unique accommodation option for visitors seeking peace and solitude.
According to Lyngdoh, the ambitious project, estimated at over Rs 150 crore, will take around three years to complete. Once operational, it is expected to offer luxury accommodation options to visitors, particularly those seeking premium hospitality experiences in Meghalaya.
Highlighting that the state government’s focus on developing luxury stays in the state remains strong, the tourism minister informed that necessary tenders and related formalities for the project are currently being worked out.