By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, May 10: Following the stiff opposition from different quarters to the ecotourism project in Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary, the Meghalaya government is unlikely to pursue it unless it gets all the necessary clearances.
Local pressure groups and villagers near the sanctuary have opposed any move to disturb the sanctuary through the ecotourism development plan.
E-Factor Experiences Limited, a design and event management firm from Noida in Uttar Pradesh, secured the Rs 23.60 crore project to develop ecotourism infrastructure in and around the sanctuary under the EPC (engineering, procurement, and construction) model.
The project includes the development of a chalet-style resort, an interpretation centre, canopy-based skywalks, and a water sports zone, with a strong emphasis on local craftsmanship and sustainable materials.
According to government officials, following the opposition, the TCIL will now seek the recommendations of the Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife as well as the approval of the central government under the Van (Sanrakshan and Samvardhan) Adhiniyam, 1980. They said applications, complete in all respects, may be submitted online through the Parivesh portal. The departmental officers concerned will process these applications within the prescribed timelines.
They also said the Eco-Development Society, TCIL, Forest and Environment Department , and E-Factor Experiences will approach the local communities and make them aware of the salient features of the project.
The fate of the project also depends on the KHADC and the village communities in and around Nongkhyllem. It is not known if they were consulted, although the project is for them on paper.
It is learnt that a part of the land earmarked for the project belongs to the KHADC.
Many in the government think that the project should not commence without the necessary clearances.
The sanctuary is home to several key species, including the Indian bison (gaur), leopards, and a variety of birds. A national-level Management Effectiveness Evaluation rated it as one of the best-managed protected areas in the Northeast.