SHILLONG, Feb 28: The Centre has directed the Meghalaya government to return approximately Rs 270 crore allocated for land acquisition for the Byrnihat-Shillong railway project, a move that may further delay the long-awaited project. Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma confirmed the receipt of a letter from the Centre requesting the return of the allocated funds.

Sangma expressed concern over the future of the railway project, stating that the potential return of funds could halt any progress on the project. He emphasized that the state government had been pushed by the Centre to either implement the railway project or return the money. The Centre, according to Sangma, has made it clear that it will not wait indefinitely for the state to take action.

The Meghalaya Chief Minister also noted that the state is exploring alternative locations for railway connectivity and plans to move forward with the implementation only after consulting with the public. This development comes amid years of uncertainty and opposition regarding the Byrnihat-Shillong railway project, which has faced significant delays since its inception in 2016.

Local pressure groups have expressed strong opposition to the railway project, citing concerns over potential environmental damage, the well-being of the local population, and the influx of outsiders into the region. One of the most vocal opponents, the Hynñiewtrep Integrated Territorial Organization (HITO), has raised issues with the proposed Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) project, which seeks to establish a railway line through several scenic areas in the state.

The planned route of the railway line is set to pass through multiple areas, including Bhoksong, Rajagaon, Baithalangso, Jengkha, Kherani, and Umrangso, and eventually reach the historical town of Jowai. Despite the support from the Centre for the project, the ongoing opposition from various groups has resulted in a significant delay in its progress.