Shillong, May 7: Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong has emphasized the importance of railway connectivity for Meghalaya’s development while assuring that no decisions will be made without comprehensive consultations with all stakeholders.
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Tynsong highlighted the state government’s cautious yet progressive approach to introducing railways in the state, a move seen as critical for economic growth but requiring broad consensus due to regional sensitivities.
Tynsong noted that the Union Minister of Railways has reaffirmed the central government’s keen interest in connecting Meghalaya to the national railway network, underscoring that the initiative is aimed at benefiting the state’s residents. “This is not for their interest. It is for the interest of the people of the state,” he said.
To ensure inclusive decision-making, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma has constituted an all-party committee to deliberate on the matter.
Tynsong announced that a meeting with stakeholders, including political parties and community representatives, will be convened soon to facilitate a “frank discussion” before any final decision is reached.
“I personally feel we need railways, but we also need to carry everybody on board,” he stated, emphasizing the need for consensus.
The deputy chief minister remained open to various possibilities, including the potential introduction of goods trains, but stressed that such specifics would only be determined after stakeholder consultations.
“Let us meet first. Once we discuss with all stakeholders, then only we will understand the loopholes and decide whether this subject can be carried forward or not,” Tynsong said.
Acknowledging concerns about demographic changes due to large-scale projects, Tynsong reiterated the state government’s commitment to implementing the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system to safeguard Meghalaya’s indigenous population. “We are all out for the immediate implementation of the ILP. The House has passed the resolution, and we want it to be there,” he affirmed, adding that discussions on railways would also address related issues like anti-influx mechanisms. The deputy chief minister in charge of Home, also declined to comment on the Voice of the People Party (VPP)’s decision to abstain from the upcoming all-party committee meeting, maintaining focus on the broader consultation process.
