Shillong: The Centre has asked the Meghalaya government to return around Rs 270 crore that was given for the acquisition of land for the Byrnihat-Shillong railway project.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Wednesday said the state government has received a letter from the Centre asking the state to return the money.
“The point is the government of India is not going to wait forever. Already we have received a letter from the government of India to return the money that was deposited for the Byrnihat and Shillong line. So technically these projects will most probably be shut,” he said.
The construction of the 108-km Byrnihat-Shillong railway line has been stalled since 2016-17 due to opposition from some local groups. Concerns have been raised that the railway line could lead to an influx of outsiders.
“I don’t think railway will become a possibility in Shillong because the Centre has asked for the money and most probably if the support is there and if positive response comes from East Jaintia Hills then we may be able to go ahead with the project there,” the chief minister said.
He mentioned the state government is exploring other locations in the state for rail connectivity, and would proceed if there is public agreement.
He stated that while connectivity is important, the government also acknowledges and respects the stance of organizations that oppose railway projects.
He stated that the government will only consider connecting East Jaintia Hills by rail if there is public support, and the government is planning a public hearing on the proposal.
Meanwhile, Meghalaya’s pressure group Hynñiewtrep Integrated Territorial Organization (HITO) has voiced strong opposition against the Northeast Frontier Railway’s proposal for a railway project from Chaparmukh in Assam to Jowai.
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This ambitious railway line is slated to traverse the scenic landscapes of Bhoksong, Rajagaon, Baithalangso, Jengkha, Kherani, and Umrangso, ultimately culminating in the historical town of Jowai.
