The controversy surrounding the proposed Taj luxury resort at Umiam Lake has taken a dramatic turn. Environmental activists under the banner of the Green-Tech Foundation have now launched an indefinite silent protest at Lumpongdeng Island, escalating the battle over what they say is a threat to one of Meghalaya’s most iconic natural treasures. Early Wednesday morning, members of the foundation marched from the banks of Umiam Lake to Lumpongdeng Island, carrying placards and demanding that the state government immediately scrap the project and revoke the land allotment.
Chairman H. Bansiewdor Nonglang accused the government of ignoring environmental concerns and warned that the protest will continue until a written assurance is issued cancelling the project. At the centre of the controversy is the reported transfer of nearly 66 acres of land to the Indian Hotels Company Limited, a Tata Group subsidiary. According to activists, 33 to 36 acres fall directly on Lumpongdeng Island, an area they describe as eco-fragile and home to nesting birds. The foundation has also raised questions about transparency, citing RTI documents that allegedly show approval for villas and restaurants, contradicting government claims that there will be no permanent structures on the island.
Meanwhile, the state government maintains that the proposed Taj Umiam Resort and Spa is a high-value, low-impact tourism project, expected to generate nearly Rs1,981 crore in revenue over a 60-year lease period while following global sustainability standards. But as of now, protesters remain stationed on Lumpongdeng Island, vowing not to leave until their demands are met — turning the serene waters of Umiam Lake into the centre of a growing environment versus development debate in Meghalaya.