SHILLONG, OCT 28: The Tourism department has filed an FIR against a KHADC inspector for locking the lower terminal site of the Shillong Ropeway project at Lawsohtun.

Commissioner & Secretary Tourism RM Kurbah on Wednesday said the seizure is illegal as the site is government property.

“The lower terminal point belongs to the government. We have set up only a temporary camp there. The move carried out on government property is illegal and not welcome. We have taken action to take over the site immediately,” Kurbah said.

“We have filed an FIR in Laban PS against the inspector. No arrest yet, police are doing their duty,” she said.

Kurbah clarified that no construction has started.

“The camp is mandatory under New Development Bank norms to ensure environmental and social safety. It is for soil testing, approach road and leveling. No digging of the six pillars or terminal has been done. Allegation that work started is false,” she said.

On due process, she said a work order was issued on Oct 25, 2025, NOC from Dorbar Pyllun on May 4, 2026 and trading license application moved to KHADC on May 18, 2026.

“They applied for NOC from Syiem of Mylliem on July 16, got a letter July 28. Show-cause was issued Aug 27, contractor replied, and NOC from Dorbar Myntri of San Kur and 11 Kur was received Sept 28. Process is ongoing, nothing non-transparent. You cannot go and lock up our office,” she said.

On delay in KHADC permission, she said, “That is their prerogative.”

On public consultation, she said, “Unlike road projects, this needs public consultation, not hearing. Upper terminal belongs to Raid Laban, lower to government. Both were consulted in 2022 with no objection. Foundation was laid by CM and project declared by President of India. Objection should have come then.”

She added that Lum Shyllong is 3.15 km away from the site.