GSU demands probe into Rs 9.10 crore tourism projects in Siju, Meghalaya

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaFebruary 3, 2025

The Garo Students’ Union (GSU) Siju Regional Unit has called for an investigation into the Swadesh Darshan Scheme, which allocated Rs. 9.10 crore for tourism development projects near Siju Caves in Meghalaya. The union has raised serious concerns over the poor quality of infrastructure that has already fallen into disrepair without being inaugurated.

In a complaint submitted to the Tourism Minister through the Deputy Commissioner, South Garo Hills on Friday, the GSU highlighted multiple issues with the projects funded under the centrally sponsored Swadesh Darshan Scheme by the Ministry of Tourism. Substantial funds were allocated for several projects, including the Adventure Park (Rs. 2,50,00,000), the Bird Watch Tower and Siju Cave Interpretation Centre with Cafeteria (Rs. 3,16,00,000), the Approach Road and Parking (Rs. 2,19,04,800), and Solar Illumination and Landscape (Rs. 50,66,475). These projects are reportedly deteriorating before their official inauguration, with issues such as cracks, leaks, and other signs of structural failure indicating the use of substandard materials and poor execution of work.

The complaint also raised concerns about the construction of a zipline at Siju, amounting to Rs. 75,00,000. Although the zipline project has received a completion certificate, it has been inexplicably shifted to another location with government approval. According to an RTI reply dated 17 December 2024, the zipline has been moved to another location, but it is nowhere to be seen in and around Siju or the entire district of South Garo Hills. The union contends that this action undermines the intended development of the Siju Caves infrastructure and is unacceptable.

“This mismanagement not only wastes public funds but also tarnishes the reputation of our tourism sector. Tourists expect well-maintained facilities that enhance their experience. With such poorly built infrastructure, the safety and satisfaction of visitors are at great risk,” stated Welbingstar Sangma, Secretary of the GSU Siju Regional Unit.

The union has called on the government to conduct a thorough investigation and hold those responsible for the negligence accountable. The GSU demands that the funds allocated for this project be transparently audited, and necessary actions be taken to either rectify the damages or reconstruct the structures properly.