SHILLONG, MAY 8: The state government will move ahead with railway projects in the Khasi-Jaintia region only after building consensus among stakeholders, Deputy Chief Minister in-charge Transport Sniawbhalang Dhar said on Friday.
“This is the people’s government. We negotiate with the stakeholders. That is why government never bulldozes things. We always take everybody on board,” Dhar told reporters when asked about the status of the proposed railway lines.
He said an all-party committee set up last year was still examining the matter.
“Yes, an all-party committee was constituted last year. It takes time. It may take 10-15 meetings because we need to take everybody on board,” he added.
Explaining the delay compared to Garo Hills, where there has been more openness to rail connectivity, Dhar said, “Our people are different from place to place. So that is the reason we have to create awareness for all local people. That is the reason it is taking time. Every new thing takes time.”
Asked whether additional railway lines were planned for Garo Hills, he said, “Let us see. As of now, let’s see.”
By Our Reporter
