Nongpoh, Dec 14: Meghalaya marked a historic moment as the foundation stone for its first-ever Bamboo Park was laid in Mawtnum village in Ri Bhoi District on Saturday by James K. Sangma, Chairman of the Meghalaya Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC).
This unique tourist attraction, to be constructed entirely from bamboo, will soon feature prominently in the state’s tourism calendar.
The visionary project, spearheaded by the leaders of Mawtnum village under the guidance of village headman Badhok Nongmalieh, seeks to promote eco-tourism while safeguarding the environment. The park also aims to create employment opportunities and enhance the livelihoods of local farmers in Ri Bhoi District.
Addressing the gathering, James K. Sangma praised the initiative and vision of the village leaders in coming up with the ideas of constructing the Bamboo Park without harming the environment, by highlighting that Meghalaya, particularly Ri Bhoi, is rich in bamboo resources due to its lush forests.
“This project is a significant step towards sustainable development, as bamboo grows much faster than other trees,” Sangma said, while also assuring that MIDC will provide necessary support to help complete this project.
Emphasizing on the goals of the Bamboo Park, village headman Badhok Nongmalieh said the project aims to boost tourism, create jobs for the youth, and improve the livelihood of the farmers. The park will feature 10–11 bamboo structures, including workshops for bamboo products, training centers, tourist accommodations, and other attractions—all built using locally sourced bamboo.
He also shared that the project is currently being funded entirely by the village without any financial assistance from the state government. However, he was hopeful that the government would extend its support in the future to help fully realize the vision of the Ri Bhoi Bamboo Park.
The foundation-laying ceremony was attended by prominent dignitaries, including Umsning MLA Dr. Celestine Lyngdoh, Additional Deputy Commissioner M.B. Tongper, MIDC Managing Director D.D. Nongmalieh, former Mawhati MLA Donbok Khymdeit, and former Umsning MDC Donkupar Sumer, along with local residents.
.){kind=link}