Shillong, April 10: The Green-Tech Foundation has strongly criticised the Meghalaya government over the proposed tourism project at Lumpongdeng Island near Umiam Lake, alleging that the public is being misled about the true nature of the development.
Addressing the media, R. Lyngdoh, General Secretary of the organisation, said the government must “live up to its position” and act responsibly in safeguarding the environment and public interest. He questioned the government’s stance, claiming that official statements contradict details found in agreement documents.
The criticism comes in response to recent clarifications by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, who had stated that no permanent construction would be allowed on the island. However, Lyngdoh alleged that documents in the Foundation’s possession suggest otherwise.
According to him, papers related to the project point to plans for a luxury resort and spa. He claimed that the “Consent to Establish” includes built-up infrastructure such as villas, restaurants, and cafes, which, he argued, cannot be categorised as temporary structures.
Lyngdoh also questioned the transparency of the project, stating that the public has not been clearly informed about the parties involved in the agreement or the entities executing it. He alleged that the government’s clarification appears to be an attempt to create confusion and shield key stakeholders.
Raising environmental concerns, the Foundation described Lumpongdeng Island as an ecologically sensitive and largely untouched area accessible only by boat. Lyngdoh warned that tourism-related activities, including events and commercial gatherings, could severely impact its biodiversity, including migratory birds and native flora and fauna.
“We do not want commercialization of the island,” he said, adding that even temporary events involving loud music and human activity could disturb fragile ecosystems and breeding habitats.
The Foundation further cited biodiversity conservation guidelines and invoked the precautionary principle in environmental law, accusing the authorities of overlooking their responsibility to protect ecologically fragile areas.
Refuting the Chief Minister’s assurance, the organisation termed the government’s statement as “nothing but a tactic” to divert public attention, reiterating that it would continue to oppose any move that threatens the ecological balance of Lumpongdeng Island.
