Meghalaya Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh on Thursday affirmed that the state government will proceed with the execution of the ₹150-crore Shillong ropeway project, ruling out any possibility of relocation or withdrawal despite mounting opposition, environmental concerns, and disputes over local clearances. Addressing media queries, Lyngdoh asserted that shifting the project was completely unfeasible, clarifying that infrastructure development cannot simply be treated as a cut-and-paste job. He further alleged that the opposition to Meghalaya’s first passenger ropeway initiative might be politically motivated by government adversaries seeking to create instability ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections. Regarding administrative hurdles, the minister addressed the pending trade licence required by the executing firm, noting that the application had been submitted in May and expected formal approval shortly. He also confirmed that the district administration had intervened on Wednesday to break open the locks previously placed on the company’s premises by the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) due to clearance disputes. Dismissing environmental apprehensions regarding local water bodies, Lyngdoh highlighted that Shillong Peak is located over 3.15 kilometres away from the proposed construction sites, minimizing ecological risks. To alleviate public concerns and build trust, the government offered to take local stakeholders to Sikkim to observe operational ropeway systems firsthand. He also defended the public consultation process, emphasizing that the state had repeatedly engaged with the Raid Laban Durbar Pyllun and seven local Durbars. Approved by the state Cabinet in September 2022, the landmark project saw its foundation stone virtually laid by President Droupadi Murmu in January 2024, followed by another foundation stone unveiling by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma in December of that year. Designed to connect Madan Laban directly with the Shillong Viewpoint near Shillong Peak, the cable car system aims to provide an efficient alternative transport mode and alleviate severe vehicular congestion for tourists and residents alike. The ₹150-crore venture is jointly financed through ₹80.89 crore from the New Development Bank and ₹70.11 crore under the Central Government’s PM-DevINE scheme. Construction officially commenced on October 15, 2025, with full completion targeted for October 2028. Despite the KHADC shutting down the site on October 27 over missing local permits, the administration’s decisive actions underscore the government’s unwavering resolve to finish this vital connectivity project.