SHILLONG : Cabinet Minister and Amlarem MLA Lahkmen Rymbui on Tuesday acknowledged that the ongoing Shillong-Dawki road project has adversely affected tourist arrivals and local livelihoods in Dawki, Mawlynnong and nearby areas. However, he stressed that the project remains crucial for the long-term development of tourism and infrastructure in Meghalaya.
Speaking on the impact of the construction work on tourism, Rymbui said that while Meghalaya is blessed with natural beauty, the tourism sector cannot grow without proper infrastructure and connectivity.
“Meghalaya is blessed with natural beauty, but the Government of Meghalaya and the Government of India recognize the importance of tourism. However, tourism cannot be developed without road communication, telecommunication and other basic facilities,” he said.
The minister expressed gratitude to the Government of India for funding the Shillong-Tamabil Road project and noted that construction work is progressing steadily.
He admitted that the ongoing construction has temporarily affected tourist inflow and the livelihoods of people dependent on tourism in Dawki and Mawlynnong.
“As of now, tourist inflow through the area is affected and the livelihood of the people is affected, but we need to be patient,” Rymbui stated.
According to him, patience is necessary because the terrain in the region is highly vulnerable to landslides, particularly during the rainy season, making construction work challenging and potentially dangerous.
He pointed out that even light rainfall can trigger landslides due to the unstable soil conditions in the area. Rymbui also recalled that lives have been lost during the course of the ongoing construction, highlighting the need for strict safety measures.
“Precaution is needed because we cannot deny the fact that human life has also been lost during the ongoing construction,” he said.
Calling for both safety and speedy completion of the project, the minister said it is the responsibility of the concerned authorities to ensure all necessary precautionary measures are taken while also ensuring that the work is completed at the earliest possible time.
He added that the Sub-Divisional Magistrate and the Government must work together to ensure public safety and expedite the completion of the road project, which is expected to significantly improve connectivity and boost tourism in the region once completed.