Shillong, Nov 21: Shyntor Bulia, a remote village nestled within the lush green terrain of Them Ri-Bhoi under the Nongpoh constituency, has drawn significant attention after local leaders described it as one of the most backward and long-neglected villages in Ri-Bhoi District. During a recent field visit by media persons, Rangbah Shnong Bah Rowel Mawphiang and former village headman Bah Edarius Kyrsian spoke candidly about the village’s persistent challenges, which have kept it far behind neighbouring areas despite the district’s overall development.
According to the village authorities, road connectivity remains the most pressing issue. The only road leading to Shyntor Bulia is in a severely damaged condition, making daily movement difficult and becoming nearly impassable during the monsoon season. Farmers are especially affected, as transporting their produce to nearby markets becomes an arduous and costly task, ultimately impacting their livelihood.
Residents also continue to struggle due to the absence of a functional healthcare facility. For any form of medical assistance, even minor ailments, villagers are forced to travel long distances. This poses serious risks to pregnant women, infants, the elderly and those with chronic illnesses. The lack of reliable health services has been one of the community’s long-standing concerns.
Education in Shyntor Bulia also remains inadequate. The village has only a small school, which suffers from limited staffing and weak infrastructure. Students seeking higher-level classes are compelled to walk long distances every day, a factor that has contributed to rising dropout rates and fewer opportunities for local children.
Water supply and sanitation issues persist as well. While neighbouring villages have benefited from new water schemes under government programmes, many residents of Shyntor Bulia continue to depend on unprotected natural sources due to irregular water availability. This has raised concerns about water safety and overall public health.
Economically, the village is heavily reliant on farming and daily wage labour. Poor road connectivity and limited access to markets have restricted agricultural income, while rising unemployment among youth further complicates the economic challenges faced by the community.
Expressing his concern, Rangbah Shnong Bah Rowel Mawphiang stated that Shyntor Bulia has been neglected for far too long and urged the government to address the villagers’ basic needs. Former headman Bah Edarius Kyrsian echoed this sentiment, stating that the hardships faced by children, farmers, and elderly residents are unimaginable and appealing for government authorities to visit, assess, and respond to the situation.
Despite its struggles, Shyntor Bulia is a village of immense natural charm and cultural heritage. Surrounded by dense forests rich in medicinal plants, clean streams, paddy fields, and serene hillsides, the village holds strong potential for eco-tourism. Its tranquil nature trails, rich biodiversity and deep-rooted Khasi traditions make it a unique cultural and environmental destination that remains largely unexplored.
Villagers believe that with timely government intervention, focused developmental planning and preservation of its natural surroundings, Shyntor Bulia can progress alongside other villages in Ri-Bhoi. The community hopes that improved infrastructure, reliable essential services and opportunities for sustainable tourism will pave the way for inclusive growth, better livelihoods and long-term resilience.
by Carmel Lyngdoh.
