By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 10: In his second clarification in as many days, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Friday made it clear that the proposed Taj Resort and Spa would be developed at the existing Orchid Umiam property, and not on Lumpongdeng Island.
Issuing his second clarification amid growing concerns over the project, Sangma said the main hotel and core infrastructure would be constructed at the Orchid Umiam site, while Lumpongdeng Island would be used only for limited activities involving temporary structures.
In a video statement, the CM stated that the island would host controlled tourism-related activities, with provisions for temporary installations such as tents and similar facilities, while avoiding permanent construction.
He emphasised that the project is part of a broader and “holistic tourism strategy” aimed at strengthening Meghalaya’s tourism sector through a mix of high-end and community-based initiatives.
“The strategy requires infrastructure creation, including hotels and five-star properties, while also ensuring benefits reach local communities,” Sangma said.
Highlighting the government’s focus on inclusive growth, he noted that homestays, local tour guides, transport systems, and indigenous products such as handicrafts and textiles are being actively promoted alongside large-scale investments.
Sangma revealed that Meghalaya currently has one of the most aggressive homestay programmes in the region, with nearly 800 units under development and a target of 3,000 more in the coming years.
He assured that the government is mindful of environmental concerns and is working to strike a balance between economic development and ecological preservation.
“At one level, we are facilitating high-end luxury tourism. At the same time, we are ensuring that smaller stakeholders—such as homestay owners and local entrepreneurs—benefit from the sector’s growth,” he said.
Reiterating the need for public support, the CM expressed hope that the clarification would address concerns and help citizens understand the larger vision behind the government’s tourism push in the Umiam region.
Indefinite hunger strike against project continues
Despite two back-to-back clarifications from the CM, members of the Green-Tech Foundation, Meghalaya, continued their indefinite hunger strike for the third day on Friday.
The protesters vowed to continue their agitation until their concerns were addressed.
The Voice of the People Party, and pressure groups like KSU, HYC, and HITO have extended solidarity to the protesters.
Foundation general secretary Ritre Lyngdoh criticised the government for lack of transparency regarding the project. He pointed out that while the CM referred to an agreement for the luxury resort and spa, the parties involved were not disclosed.
Lyngdoh claimed the organisation possesses documents related to the agreement, including details of the tender process and the formation of a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV).
He questioned the CM’s assurance that no permanent structures would be constructed on Lumpongdeng Island. Citing documents obtained through the Right to Information (RTI) Act, he said the Consent to Establish (CTE) indicates a proposed built-up area of 36 acres, including villas, restaurants, cafés and other facilities.
“This contradicts the government’s claim that only temporary structures such as tents and shamianas will be set up,” Lyngdoh said, adding that such inconsistencies raise serious concerns about transparency.
Describing Lumpongdeng Island as an ecologically sensitive and pristine area, Lyngdoh warned that any form of commercial activity would adversely impact its biodiversity. He noted that the island serves as a habitat for migratory birds and other flora and fauna.
The Foundation reiterated its opposition to any form of commercialisation of the island and warned that it would continue its protest to preserve the ecological integrity of Lumpongdeng Island.
Ri-Bhoi admin clarifies on tree felling at Lumpongdeng Island
Following the circulation of visuals indicating the commencement of tree felling at Lumpongdeng Island located in the middle of Umiam Lake, the District Tourism Officer of Ri-Bhoi, Ban Nongkynrih, on Friday clarified that the activity was not authorised by the government but was carried out by private individuals taking advantage of the situation.
The official further informed that immediately upon receiving information about the incident, the department lodged a complaint at Umiam Police Station. During the course of investigation, the police arrested two persons allegedly involved in the act. He added that apart from filing the complaint, the department has also informed the State Forest Department, which is expected to conduct an inspection into the alleged tree felling at Lumpongdeng on Saturday.
Ri-Bhoi Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal, while speaking to media persons after a meeting convened by the District Tourism Promotion Society (DTPS), said the gathering was aimed at apprising the villages in the Umiam area about the government’s proposal to develop a five-star Taj Resort & Spa at Umiam, particularly in connection with Lumpongdeng island, which has been strongly opposed by the Green-Tech Foundation.
Baranwal stated that the meeting, attended by representatives from five villages in the Umiam area—Mawlyndep, Umbir, Umniuh, Umsaw and Umiam—along with officials from the Meghalaya Energy Corporation Limited (MeECL), the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB), and the Tourism Department, proved productive.
He informed that after detailed discussions and clarifications, all five villages expressed their full support for the government’s plan to establish the resort at Umiam, with the aim of promoting the state as a globally recognised tourist destination. The Green-Tech Foundation, which is currently staging an indefinite hunger strike in Shillong, declined to attend the meeting.
During the meeting, the villages also urged that local youth from the Umiam area be given priority in employment and other benefits arising from the proposed multi-crore project.
On the issue of Lumpongdeng Island, the DC clarified that no permanent structures would be constructed at the site. Only temporary, removable structures have been proposed, as specified in the tender issued by the State Tourism Department.
