Shillong, Aug 8: Concerns over trees, water and slopes were put under the lens on Saturday as government officials and Riat Laban Dorbar Pyllun carried out a joint inspection at the proposed Lower and Upper Terminal sites of the Shillong Ropeway Project.
The on-ground review at Madan Laban brought together the Department of Tourism, Meghalaya Ropeway Development Authority, Forest & Environment, PHED, Shillong Municipal Board, engineers and Dorbar representatives. DFOs from East Khasi Hills and Ri Bhoi were also present to address environmental aspects.
Commissioner & Secretary Tourism Rosetta Mary Kurbah said clearance has been given to fell 544 trees, limited only to areas needed for stations and six cable towers. To reduce impact, the state rejected an earlier 25-metre tower plan and approved 40-metre towers with 12×12 metre bases. She added that compensatory afforestation will be done as per norms and that the site was relocated to better protect the watershed.
Addressing local worries, MRDA said the Detailed Project Report includes safeguards against soil erosion and landslides. PHED and SMB officials, backed by Shnong representatives, clarified there are no drinking water sources at the lower terminal. Dorbar leaders informed that the land has been leased and is a designated site.
The team later visited the proposed upper terminal near Shillong Peak and found no tree felling there, easing concerns about damage to the catchment.
