📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / debanutosh
Politics
Meghalaya Government Sticks to Shillong Peak Ropeway Plan Despite Opposition
✍️ Northeast Today
🗓 13 Nov 2026, 09:16 PM
👁 10
The Meghalaya state government reiterated its commitment to constructing a ropeway to Shillong Peak, even as local opposition to the project grows.
The Meghalaya government has publicly reaffirmed its intention to build a cable‑car ropeway linking the city of Shillong to the popular tourist spot Shillong Peak. Officials say the project, first announced last year, is aimed at easing road traffic, promoting eco‑tourism and generating revenue for the state.
Environmental activists and several local resident groups have intensified their protests, warning that the ropeway could disturb the fragile hill ecosystem and lead to unauthorised construction on protected land. They have called for a halt to the project until comprehensive impact studies are completed.
State authorities responded by citing detailed feasibility reports that, according to them, demonstrate minimal ecological damage and highlight significant economic benefits. The government has pledged to incorporate mitigation measures, including strict waste management and limited construction footprints.
The department overseeing tourism said a stakeholder meeting is scheduled for early next month to address concerns and outline the next phases of the project, which is slated to begin civil work by the end of the year if approvals are secured.
Environmental activists and several local resident groups have intensified their protests, warning that the ropeway could disturb the fragile hill ecosystem and lead to unauthorised construction on protected land. They have called for a halt to the project until comprehensive impact studies are completed.
State authorities responded by citing detailed feasibility reports that, according to them, demonstrate minimal ecological damage and highlight significant economic benefits. The government has pledged to incorporate mitigation measures, including strict waste management and limited construction footprints.
The department overseeing tourism said a stakeholder meeting is scheduled for early next month to address concerns and outline the next phases of the project, which is slated to begin civil work by the end of the year if approvals are secured.