Shillong: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Thursday said the Meghalaya government would proceed with the proposed railway project in the Khasi-Jaintia region only after achieving broad consensus through consultations with all stakeholders.
Addressing the media, Sangma said the government was clear that the project would not be pushed forward without taking everyone on board.
He expressed disappointment over the absence of several political parties at the recently convened all-party meeting to discuss the issue.
Urging opposition parties to participate in the dialogue, the chief minister said meaningful discussions were essential to resolve differences.
He stressed that without sustained engagement, it would be difficult to reach any common ground on the project.
Sangma reiterated the government’s commitment to continued consultations, stating that efforts would be made to explain the economic benefits of the railway project while also addressing concerns raised by various groups.
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He said the aim was to reach a meeting point acceptable to all stakeholders before taking the matter forward to the Centre.
While describing the railway project as economically significant for the state, Sangma acknowledged that it remains a sensitive issue and requires careful and inclusive consideration.
The state government had constituted an all-party committee to deliberate on the project, but some political parties have so far declined to be part of the process.
