By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, March 29: The Meghalaya Pradesh Mahila Congress (MPMC) on Sunday strongly opposed the proposed development of a five-star luxury resort and spa at Lumpongdeng Island in Umiam Lake, citing serious environmental concerns.
In a statement, MPMC president Joplyn Scott Shylla said the project threatens nearly 66 acres of ecologically sensitive land and could cause irreversible damage to the pristine environment of Umiam Lake, one of the state’s most valued natural assets.
“Umiam Lake is not only a vital water resource but also a symbol of Meghalaya’s natural heritage and ecological balance. Any large-scale commercial development in such a fragile area poses a serious risk to its sustainability,” Shylla said.
She expressed concern that construction and commercial activities could disturb the ecosystem, pollute the water, and adversely affect the livelihoods of local communities dependent on the lake. “We strongly object to any form of exploitation that could harm the environment or undermine the rights and livelihoods of the people living around the lake,” the MPMC president added.
She also urged the Meghalaya government to immediately halt the proposed project and instead prioritise sustainable and community-sensitive alternatives.
