SHILLONG, APR 14: Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong has assured that the government is open to talks with the Green Tech Foundation, which is staging a hunger strike protest against the proposed tourism project at Umiam lake and Lumpongdeng Island.

“The door of the government is always open. We have clarified our stance, and we are willing to provide further clarification if needed,” Tynsong said.

When asked if the government would send a messenger to invite the protesters for talks at the secretariat, he replied, “No, not necessarily. The door of the government is always open for further clarification and discussion.”

The deputy chief minister has assured that the government is committed to protecting the environment while promoting tourism in Meghalaya.

The GTF is demanding the scrapping of the project for construction of the five-star Taj resort and spa citing environmental concerns. The Foundation alleges that the project would lead to the destruction of the island’s ecosystem and benefit only a select few.

Tynsong however clarified that the government has no intention of allowing any permanent structures on Lumpongdeng Island.

“We have assured that there will be no environment destruction and instead we will further beautify the Island,” he said.

“Similar initiatives taken for beautifying Ward’s Lake will be replicated at Lumpongdeng Island. We will plant more trees to further enhance its scenic beauty so that it will become one of the most favorite destinations for tourists.”

Tynsong emphasized that the project is aimed at promoting tourism in the state and creating employment opportunities for local youth.

“75% of employees in Marriott Courtyard and Vivanta are local youth, who have completed their studies in the hospitality sector,” he said.

“Many of our youth are going out of the state to pursue their studies in the hospitality sector including hotel management. Therefore, we want to create employment opportunities within the state.”

The Deputy CM also addressed concerns about the investment and the alleged benefits to those in power, saying, “Are you trying to say that the construction of the new secretariat would deepen our pockets? I want to say that the infrastructure investment being made today would benefit the future generation and would be a pride for the people of the state.”

Asked if the protest is being politically motivated, Tynsong said, “Let the people judge that, I have nothing to say whether it is political or it is social, I have nothing to say but my duty is only to clarify. That is why I am here to submit the detailed clarification from the government side.”