Scrap Umngot HEP: Govt told

This was made to a delegation of the Joint Action Committee against Umngot Hydro Electric Project during a meeting held on Tuesday.

Speaking to reporters, Chairman of the JAC and Doloi of Elaka Darang Pyrwa Lymba said that the delegation had requested the Chief Minister to intervene by ensuring that the proposed construction of a dam over Umngot river is cancelled.

“This is because of the fact that implementation of the project would no doubt affect over 20-25 villages which are totally dependent on tourism in West Jaintia Hills district. These villages are generating revenue of not less than Rs 4 crore yearly from tourism,” he said.

Vice Chairman of the JAC and President of Ka Kynhun ki Nongrep, East Khasi Hills District, Pynskhem Mukhim said that around 11-12 villages in the district would be affected by the proposed project.

JAC Assistant Secretary and Secretary of Elaka Darang KM Ryngksai informed that the chief minister has assured the delegation to examine the proposal for construction of the dam.

“However, we have maintained that the project should be scrapped as it will affect the economic activities of the people from these two districts besides tourism and environment,” he said.

“He (CM) also assured to examine the demand for scrapping the project. The CM told us that there will be an assessment being conducted and if found to affect the people, the project may be cancelled,” Ryngksai added.

Asked, the JAC leader said, “Although the government is yet to take a call on the issue, we however have faith in the leadership of the chief minister that the government will not go against the voice of the people.”

According to him, the JAC will support the state government in its endeavor to implement mini power projects to increase the power generation of the state.

Meanwhile, JAC member M Nongrum informed that the Chief Minister had also expressed before the delegation the need to consult with his cabinet ministers before taking a final call on the issue. “But we insist that the government should cancel the project as it will only affect the future of the people and the region,” she added.

By Our Reporter