Paul Lyngdoh re-inducted into Meghalaya Cabinet with Tourism portfolio
The move comes as the Shillong Peak Ropeway Project faces opposition from residents and various groups.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has re-inducted MLA Paul Lyngdoh into the Cabinet and assigned him the Tourism portfolio, according to The Shillong Times.
Lyngdoh was sworn in as Cabinet Minister on Monday by Governor C.H. Vijayashankar at Lok Bhavan. He is expected to hold additional portfolios, including Social Welfare.
The Shillong Peak Ropeway Project, which aims to connect Shillong Viewpoint at Shillong Peak with the Forest Nursery at Riat Laban, has faced opposition from residents, the Khasi Students’ Union, the Voice of the People Party, and women’s groups under the Riat Laban Dorbar Pyllun.
Lyngdoh said he did not demand a Cabinet berth and was not informed in advance about his portfolios. He stated that the Chief Minister told him he wanted to see continuity in tourism activities.
Regarding the ropeway controversy, Lyngdoh said he would adopt a balanced approach by engaging with involved groups. He said his responsibility is to ensure tourism is brought back on track.
Lyngdoh has maintained that the project secured environmental clearances, including approvals from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in 2022. He plans to convene a meeting with department officials to chart a way forward.