SHILLONG, JUN 3: Deputy Chief Minister in-charge Home Prestone Tynsong on Wednesday said the Meghalaya government has not abandoned the railway project but will move forward only after building consensus among all stakeholders.
He reiterated that addressing the demand for Inner Line Permit is the state’s immediate priority.
Dispelling suggestions that the project had been halted, Tynsong said, “It is not a question of stopping the project. We never said we will stop it. What we are saying is that we want to carry everybody along. All stakeholders have to be on board. That is the main issue.”
He said public sentiment is clear on the sequence of priorities.
“Right now, the most important issue is the pending one. The stakeholders, even the citizens of the state, want ILP. If that is considered, then the second subject, the railway project, can be discussed,” he said.
The railway projects in Khasi Hills region have faced roadblocks due to strong opposition from different quarters including pressure groups. These include 22-km Tetelia-Byrnihat tracks and the 108-km Byrnihat-Shillong line.
On the proposed border fencing along the Indo-Bangladesh border, Tynsong said he had no formal briefing but expected the matter to come up at the North Eastern Council meeting.
“As of now, I am not aware of the details, but I think it should be part of the discussion since the meeting is being organized on the development and security of the entire Northeastern states. I am quite sure the subject may be discussed,” he said.
The 73rd NEC Plenary is being held in Shillong from June 3 to 5 and will be chaired by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
