Shillong, Mar 5: The Centre has directed the Meghalaya government to surrender Rs 200 crore sanctioned in 2017 for land acquisition to extend railway connectivity to Shillong, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma informed the Assembly on Tuesday.

The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) sent a letter on December 17, 2024, requesting the return of the unutilized funds. Sangma stated that no land was acquired due to strong opposition to the project.

He explained that the government refrained from proceeding with land acquisition as the issue remained sensitive. He assured that any future railway expansion would involve consultations with all stakeholders.

“I have met the minister concerned multiple times, and in the last meeting, I indicated that the project has not progressed due to strong resistance,” Sangma said. However, he emphasized that railway connectivity is crucial for economic growth and transportation of goods.

Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar, who oversees the transport department, confirmed that the project stalled due to local opposition and the absence of a No-Objection Certificate from the Autonomous District Council.

Opposition Voice of the People Party (VPP) MLA Adelbert Nongrum raised concerns over possible undisclosed negotiations related to the sanctioned funds, but the chief minister denied the allegations.

Efforts to introduce railways to Shillong have faced resistance from groups citing concerns over unchecked migration in the absence of a proper regulatory mechanism.