Shillong, Jan 25: Economic loss suffered due to man-elephant conflict was one of the key issues raised by people at CM Connect programme held at Ranikor in South West Khasi Hills on Friday.
Hundreds of people from in and around Ranikor aired their grievances on road connectivity, water scarcity, rising cases of man-elephant conflict, low farm production, among others.
Health minister Ampareen Lyngdoh, MLAs Pius Marwein and Renikton Lyngdoh Tongkhar, and principal secretary P Sampath Kumar were also present.
CM Connect, initiated by the chief minister to directly engage with the community and resolve their concerns, gives an opportunity to the public to raise their concerns in presence of chief minister and senior officials.
Issues raised at CM Connect are heard and resolved to a large extent on the spot, while issues that require attention are noted for urgent consideration, according to an official release.
During Friday’s CM Connect, a burning issue relating to standing crops and homes being damaged by wild elephants was raised by villagers of Mawpylun. To this, the chief minister, who also holds the Forest and Environment portfolio, assured that the department will promptly respond to the matter.
On complaints that forest officials come drunk to respond to emergency situation of man-elephant conflict, the chief minister said stringent against will be taken against anyone found in dereliction of duties.
“It is a matter of life and death for the people, and we will not tolerate negligence,” he underscored.
As villagers from Nongnah spoke about tourism potential in their area, the chief minister informed that ₹30 lakh was earmarked for construction of a resort, including improvement of the road that connects to the village.
“Tourism is not just about buildings; it is about how you make visitors feel and how you involve your community. Let us ensure that our youth and women are included in this growth,” he said.
Villagers from Keniang raised concern over poor road connectivity that poses hindrance for transportation of different agri-horti produces, particular bay leaves. Keniang village is known for its bay leaves.
Villagers from Pomwadar, Tibbiching and Phlangdiolin spoke at length on the poor access of banking and healthcare services. The chief minister informed that their concerns will be look into and direction were given for introduction of mobile banking services in the area. He also assured that issues related to healthcare and education will also be taken up on priority basis.
To complaints about water and electricity shortage in Khonjyo A, the chief minister directed officials to resolve the issues amicably. On complaints of delay in Jal Jeevan Mission implementation, he asked the officials to ensure that the villagers are covered and completed within April 2025.
Farmers from different villagers in unison shared their stories on low crop production and sought chief minister’s assistances, to which he said the farmers can take advantage of initiatives like CM Farm Plus and avail support.
During the programme, the chief minister and other dignitaries handed over financial assistance under different welfare programmes to beneficiaries from Ranikor C&RD block.
