Nongpoh, July 31: The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC), through its Fisheries Department under the leadership of Executive Member (EM) in-charge Bah Isynei Hinge, has taken a major step towards developing the Council’s fishery assets at Lailad in Ri Bhoi district. The initiative aims to transform the fish pond into a sustainable revenue-generating asset while creating benefits for the public.
Following extensive renovation and development work on the site, which had remained neglected for many years, the Council on Friday inaugurated a newly renovated guest house and officially announced the opening of the Council-owned fish pond for recreational fishing. Members of the public can now fish at the pond by paying the prescribed fishing fee.
The programme was attended by KHADC Chief Executive Member (CEM) Bah Winston Tony Lyngdoh as the chief guest, while Fisheries EM Bah Isynei Hinge was the guest of honour. Also present were Chairman Bah Strong Pillar Kharjana, EM in-charge of Elaka Bah Powel Sohkhlet, several Executive Members and MDCs, including Nominated MDC from Nongpoh Bah Mathew Kenneth Makdoh, besides traditional heads and local village leaders.
As part of the occasion, the CEM and the Fisheries EM jointly inaugurated the renovated guest house, marking its official opening for public use. The facility will be available for rent to visitors, especially tourists and anglers wishing to spend the night while fishing either at the Council’s fish pond or along the nearby Umtrew River, popularly known as the Lailad River.
Speaking at the function, invited dignitaries and local traditional leaders said the Council-owned property had existed for many years but had remained largely neglected and underutilised. They noted that the area had gradually fallen into disrepair and was often regarded as an abandoned government property.
They expressed appreciation for the present Executive Committee, particularly Fisheries EM Bah Isynei Hinge, for taking the initiative to revive and develop the site. They voiced optimism that the project would not only generate revenue for the KHADC but also create economic opportunities and benefits for the local community through tourism and recreational fishing.
