Law enforcement authorities in Meghalaya acted on Wednesday to break the deadlock at the Madan Laban operational base of the Lum Shyllong Ropeway Project. Police personnel removed the padlocks and formal shutdown notices previously put up by the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC), restoring control to the implementing firm after days of operational disruption.
Police Intervene Following Ignored Government Directives
The decisive police measure took place after the district council failed to comply with explicit state government orders directing it to clear its notices and unlock the premises. Under the leadership of Chief Executive Member (CEM) Winston Tony Lyngdoh, the KHADC had earlier clamped down on the implementing company's headquarters, halting routine technical and administrative activities on site. With the autonomous body refusing to yield, the administration deployed police personnel to reopen the gates.
Tourism Department Stance and Legal Proceedings
The confrontation had previously triggered formal legal steps from the state Tourism Department, which filed a police complaint regarding the council's unilateral closure. Tourism authorities stressed that the facility stands entirely on government-owned land, making the council's jurisdictional intervention unlawful. In its communications, the department warned the KHADC against staging further disruptions, making it clear that continued interference would invite even stricter legal consequences.
Public Pushback and Environmental Objections
While the administrative roadblock has been cleared by law enforcement, the ropeway infrastructure scheme continues to navigate public resistance from sections of the community. Local residents have raised alarms over potential ecological damage and environmental strain stemming from construction activities. Protesters have also gathered in Shillong to stage public demonstrations against the proposed alignment, underscoring ongoing societal friction surrounding the initiative.
