By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, March 1: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has outlined a series of high-end tourism infrastructure projects aimed at transforming Meghalaya into a major cultural and experiential destination, while generating employment and strengthening local economy.
He said the proposed iconic Monolith Towers at New Shillong in the Mawkhanu area will be 123 metres tall, making them the second tallest structure in the country after the Statue of Unity.
The Chief Minister informed that the towers will function as a modern tourist hub featuring elevators, restaurants, and a circular glass walkway at the top, allowing visitors to experience panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Drawing comparisons with global landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Sangma said the project will incorporate advanced lighting technology, including nightly laser light shows that will project stories, culture, and traditions of Meghalaya.
“We are bringing high-end technology to create a unique tourism experience where visitors can enjoy cultural presentations through light and visual storytelling,” he said.
The Monolith Tower Complex, designed by INI Design Studio, will span about 213.8 acres and is planned as a combined tourism, cultural, and ecological hub inspired by traditional Khasi and Jaintia monoliths (Mawbynna), symbolising ancestral heritage.
According to official details, the complex will include five immersive galleries themed around the state’s natural and cultural identity—rain, caves, living root bridges, tribal life, and flora and fauna—along with a 72-metre sky bridge connecting the towers, elevated dining spaces, and visitor facilities.
Sangma said the Monolith Towers are part of a broader infrastructure push designed to reduce congestion in Shillong while developing new tourism zones across the state.
Several other projects are underway, including a Rs 51-crore skywalk and tourist hub at Mawkdok, described as the country’s longest cantilever structure; a Rs 30-crore Tribal Heritage Experience Centre at Mandalgre, an eco-resort project at Sakaladuma, and a Rain and Bamboo Museum at Mawsynram.
The Chief Minister noted that under the PM-DevINE initiative, Meghalaya secured Rs 233 crore for tourism development in Sohra, including an experiential centre with an amphitheatre and supporting infrastructure.
Emphasising the economic impact of tourism, Sangma said the government is adopting a holistic approach combining large-scale infrastructure with community-based initiatives.
“Tourism development activates a larger ecosystem benefiting local communities, entrepreneurs, artists, and farmers,” he said, adding that nearly 1,000 new homestays have been established across the state with a target of 3,000 more in the coming years.
He cited the example of a local entrepreneur operating a six-room homestay at Wari Chora, whose annual income has grown significantly through tourism support programmes.
Sangma highlighted support for local artists under the state’s grassroots music initiatives, noting that performers are being provided regular platforms and payments through government-supported shows, with some bands now performing at venues such as Hard Rock Cafe across India.
He reiterated that the government’s vision is to build a sustainable tourism ecosystem that promotes cultural heritage while creating large-scale employment opportunities and economic growth across Meghalaya.
