Shillong, Jan 7: Meghalaya Chief Secretary D.P. Wahlang said the state government has formally approached the central government to allocate land near Mawlonghat, owned by the Indian Army, to facilitate the relocation process.
“The current position is that we have requested the central government to allot us a small and viable area near Mawlonghat. This land belongs to the army, and we have communicated with the Ministry of Defense. Once we receive their response, we will proceed further,” Wahlang said on Tuesday.
Wahlang assured that the state government has been pursuing the matter diligently. “In December, both the Chief Minister and the Commissioner Secretary of Urban Affairs visited the Defense Ministry in Delhi before the Christmas holidays to follow up on this matter. The ball is now in the Defense Ministry’s court. We believe they are deliberating on the request with their officers in Delhi and Shillong,” he added.
The Chief Secretary highlighted that discussions with stakeholders in November yielded positive results, fostering optimism about the relocation plan. “We held consultations with stakeholders, and they were agreeable to the proposal. Importantly, the relocation plan ensures that the Gurudwara and place of worship in the area remain unaffected. If approved, it would be a win-win situation for all parties involved,” Wahlang noted.
Addressing questions about the proposed land size, Wahlang stated, “Initially, we requested two acres, but the requirement may now be reduced to one acre. Vertical expansion remains a feasible option to maximize the utility of the allocated space.”
While no specific timeline has been set for the relocation, Wahlang reiterated the state’s commitment to regular follow-ups. “We are waiting for a response from the Defense Ministry, and there is no fixed timeline. However, whenever our representatives visit Delhi, they ensure to follow up on this matter,” he said.
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