SHILLONG: At a time when the NGOs in Khasi Hills are opposing the railway project in the region fearing it would bring large scale influx, Tura MP Conrad Sangma has called for expansion of the railways to other parts of Garo Hills with proper and effective measures to address the concerns of influx.
Speaking to The Shillong Times on Tuesday, Conrad said railways should be expanded to other parts of Garo Hills since it would bring economic benefits to the people of the region.
He, however, added that the government should also take measures to address the concerns of NGOs about illegal immigration by creating check gates, issuing cards and conducting regular checking to stem this menace.
“Concerns of NGOs are serious and genuine and the government must take measures,” he said.
Sangma said the railway connectivity from Mendipathar in North Garo Hills has benefitted people economically.
“Farmers from the area are now able to sell their agricultural produce in Guwahati with much ease. They are getting better markets and better prices for their produce,” he added.
He further stated that so far, they have not seen any sign of influx of migrants into North Garo Hills with the introduction of railways.
While the railways are welcomed in Garo Hills with a rider, the railway project in East Khasi Hills is not making much progress due to stiff opposition from the NGOs.
The NGOs are asking the State Government to implement effective mechanism to check influx before introducing railways in Khasi Hills.
