Shillong, July 12: Shillong MP Vincent Pala has adopted a balanced approach while dealing with the rail connectivity in Jaintia Hills.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Pala said there should be a balance between development and concerns over influx.
He called for a study on impact of influx on development.
“Government should do a study on the impact of influx on development. There should be an impact assessment”, he said.
Besides the passenger traffic, once the railway comes to Jaintia Hills, it will be easier for transportation of cement and coal from Jaintia Hills to the mainland, he said.
“Highest deposit of limestone is there in Jaintia Hills, we have the best quality coal, we need more infrastructure to transport the products through railway as there is pressure on roads due to transportation of materials through trucks. At the same time we can’t ignore the point of view of NGOs. …they have a point. Though we agree to disagree.. the concerns of the small community like us on influx should be addressed , we should be protected at the same should we should not lose the balance between development and protection”, Pala said.
