Shillong, April 16: The Director of the Directorate of Tourism, Smt. B.L. Pakyntein, MCS, on Wednesday said the department remains open to dialogue with the Green Tech Foundation (GTF) despite recent developments surrounding its demands.
She said the department received information from the Magistrate on duty that GTF members were keen to meet tourism authorities, following which a meeting was fixed for 2:00 PM. However, the Foundation later sought written communication, prompting the department to issue a formal notice. Owing to time constraints, the meeting was later rescheduled to 5:00 PM.
According to Pakyntein, the notice was returned by GTF with a precondition that the FIR filed against its members be withdrawn before any discussion. She clarified that the Tourism Department has no jurisdiction over the FIR, as it is a matter under the District Administration and subject to due legal process.
Reiterating the department’s stand, she said it is willing to hold discussions if GTF agrees to participate, and appealed to the Foundation to withdraw its protest and resolve the issue through dialogue.
She also noted that the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister and Commissioner & Secretary have already issued clarifications stating that no permanent construction will take place at Lumpongdeng, in accordance with the project agreement.
Pakyntein further acknowledged that GTF had submitted a petition to the Tourism Minister, raising concerns over proposed construction in the Lumpongdeng area and the need to adhere to environmental norms. Copies were also forwarded to the Chief Secretary, Forest Department, and the Deputy Commissioner of Ri-Bhoi district.
Following a review, the department underscored the need to involve local residents as key stakeholders and referred the matter to the Deputy Commissioner of Ri-Bhoi to convene a joint meeting with the Dorbar Shnong and GTF. However, GTF chose not to attend.
In a subsequent meeting with village representatives and Rangbah Shnong, issues related to livelihood, employment, and environmental protection were raised. The Deputy Commissioner assured that these concerns would be addressed and communicated to the Tourism Department.
Pakyntein said later discussions with local stakeholders reflected alignment with the department’s objectives of sustainable development, livelihood generation, and environmental conservation in the Lumpongdeng area.
She added that the Dorbar Shnong would submit their conditions in writing, largely focusing on employment opportunities, livelihood support, and preservation of nature. The department, she said, is willing to formally agree to these conditions as they align with its vision.
Suggestions such as the plantation of herbal and organic trees were also welcomed, as they would enhance both ecological value and tourism potential.
Reaffirming the department’s commitment to dialogue, Pakyntein expressed concern over the ongoing hunger strike by GTF members, particularly the health of its chairman, and urged the Foundation to respond positively for an amicable resolution.
