By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Nov 24: Markham Valley, an emerging offbeat tourist destination known for its breathtaking scenery and immense untapped potential, has now become a cause for concern after large-scale destruction of its green cover surfaced.
The issue came to light when a local environmental group, Green Tech Foundation, exposed massive hill-cutting activities in the valley.
The group shared pictures and videos on social media, alleging that the pristine landscape is under threat from a powerful mafia that continued its activities despite the area recently beginning to generate revenue and livelihood opportunities for the local populace.
Mawthadraishan MLA Shakliar Warjri, expressing deep concern, said the valley holds enormous promise for tourism.
“We don’t want to see hill-cutting or any such activity in the area. I have spoken to the elders to ensure this does not happen again,” he stated.
Located in Eastern West Khasi Hills, around 67 km from Shillong, Markham Valley boasts of serene rolling meadows, sweeping green landscapes, and an occasional sea of clouds. It gained popularity a few years ago, around the time Nagaland’s famous Dzukou Valley drew global attention. With its similar terrain and charm, Markham soon earned the nickname “Mini Dzukou.”
However, the recent videos showing extensive hill-cutting have shocked nature lovers across the state.
Warjri further said that road construction is underway in the area and some tourism-related proposals have been submitted to the government. He added that the locals have begun to recognise the region’s tourism potential, with many villagers now earning their livelihood from the increasing tourist footfall.
Tura MP Saleng Sangma also expressed concern over the situation, stating that Markham is a beautiful valley whose greenery is under threat.
Asking the KHADC and State government to immediately look into the matter, he suspected that the activity of hill-cutting may have taken place due to the connivance of a contractor, businessman, or some government official.
He said that the Deputy Commissioner of the district should immediately look into the matter.
