The state government has appealed to Green Tech Foundation (GTF) to withdraw their hunger strike, stating there is no permanent construction project on Lumpongdeng Island and shares the foundation’s aim of preserving its natural environment.The appeal came after the Director of Tourism BL Pakyntein held a meeting with the GTF leaders who are on an indefinite hunger strike demanding the scrapping of a tourism project on Lumpongdeng Island.
“We appeal to withdraw the protest because we feel that their mandate and what they want is also what we want, that is preservation, upliftment, and to keep the nature there intact for people to enjoy,” Pakyntein said. She reiterated that the department does not intend to build permanent structures on the island. “So, what they want is also what we want: no permanent structure there and to give prominent attention to the nature in Lumpongdeng,” she said.
“Their main focus is Lumpongdeng, and in no uncertain terms have we said that there will be no permanent construction in Lumpongdeng. We will continue, and we are open to any dialogue, discussion, or consultation with them,” the Director added.