JAC refuses to end protest against Shillong Ropeway Project
The Joint Action Committee says the indefinite sit-in will continue until the government relocates the project from Lum Shyllong.
The Joint Action Committee (JAC) has refused to call off its indefinite sit-in against the proposed Shillong Ropeway Project on Lum Shyllong, according to The Shillong Times. The protest, located near the Kiang Nangbah statue opposite Civil Hospital, entered its third day on Sunday.
JAC executive member Anita Kharmawphlang said on Saturday that the government must relocate the project or the committee will demand the resignation of Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh. Kharmawphlang noted that women aged between 60 and 80 have joined the agitation despite family objections.
The agitation has gained support from the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU), the Hynniewtrep Jail Road Street Vendors Association, and local residents. KSU Laban Circle president Jason C. Laloo said on Sunday that the protest is justified due to the potential impact on the environment and wildlife.
Protesters expressed concern that construction could damage the Lum Shyllong catchment and water sources serving Laban and other parts of Shillong. Hynniewtrep Jail Road Street Vendors Association president Clarissa Jordana Sohtun urged the government to protect the area's green cover to prevent water scarcity.
The government has maintained that the project is environmentally safe, stating the ropeway alignment is 3.15 km away from water sources. Officials defended the project as a boost to tourism and the local economy, noting that a land agreement has paved the way for implementation.
JAC member Venitia Mawlong criticised Minister Paul Lyngdoh for his remarks regarding the protesting women. Mawlong also ruled out approaching the Meghalaya High Court, stating a legal battle would move the struggle away from the people.