Tura Feb 12: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma laid the foundation stone for tourism infrastructure development project at Siju in South Garo Hills, one of the rich bio-diversity hotspot in the State.

The project is estimated about Rs 9 crore funded by the Union Ministry of Tourism under its scheme — Swadesh Darshan.

Siju is known for its fame cave locally known as Dobakkol or the ‘bat cave’ with impressive stalagmites and stalagtites. It is one of the longest caves in the Indian Sub-continent and contains some of the finest river passages to be found any where in the world.

Laying the foundation for the ambitious project that would upscale the tourism potential of the region, the Chief Minister said, “It is an endeavour of the government to promote tourism in the State and the government is putting its trust in area that has the potential to attract visitors.”

Talking about the beauty of Siju and its rich resources that can draw tourists, the Chief Minister said that the government is rolling out marketing and branding of different tourist spots of the State that is aimed to attract tourists.

Chief Minister also inaugurated the Tourist Lodge at Siju that was funded by North Eastern Council (NEC), Ministry of DoNER. The lodge has 13 rooms to accommodate visitors.

“The identified tourist spots will be get a facelift under Swadesh Darshan scheme. We are confident that the true potential of our destination will be realised and the visitors will be able to experience Meghalaya in its best,” the Chief Minister added.

Government Chief Whip, Marcuise Marak and Siju-Rongara MLA, Rakkam A. Sangma was present during the programme.

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On behalf of Tura Lok Sabha MP Agatha K. Sangma, the Chief Minister also laid the foundation stone for construction of the 10.78 km stretch of road from Darang Boldak, near Nongalbibra in South Garo Hills. The construction also includes a bridge spanning about 145.38 meters.