Meghalaya seeks Central push for tourism projects

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma sought the intervention of Union Tourism Minister K J Alphons to initiate “destination tourism” projects in the state.

“We have to build tourism around the USPs of the region and the focus of the government will be to bring the tourism potential of the state in sync with creating avenues for the farming community as well as the youth to take entrepreneurial activities,” Sangma said.

During the meeting, the Chief Minister also discussed development of tourism infrastructure and amenities at different tourist locations, especially that of Sohra, Umiam and eco-tourism destinations of Nokrek and Balpakram.

The Union Minister has reportedly suggested Sangma to also work on possibilities to promote luxury tourism in the state focussing on its rich potential. “Meghalaya is a priority state for the Ministry of Tourism and we are going to extend all possible help to boost tourism. I would personally take up the issue of road connectivity in Meghalaya with Union Transport Minister for his personal intervention,” said Alphons.

The Union Minister has also informed Sangma about the 12 different locations identified for promotion in the northeast including Sohra, the wettest place on earth, under the Destination Tourism mission.

“We want to develop the cave network of Meghalaya and make it a major attraction for tourists,” Alphons added. The minister has promised Sangma that all pending tourism projects of the state would be accorded thrust and would be implemented in the right earnest.