The parliamentarian from Shillong in Meghalaya, Vincent Pala feels its awkward to ask for new railway projects for the State. This view was shared by Pala while interacting with media persons in the capital city while stating the the already sanctioned Tetelia-Byrnihat-Shillong railway project is mired in controversy.
“It is awkward on my part to demand any new railway projects as there is a lot of controversy over those which have already been given to us,” Pala said.
“A later generation or may be some other MP at a later point of time may want rail transport in the State,” he added. Pala also stressed only a section of people does not want railways.
The parliamentarian said he is always in favour of development, be it roadways, railways or airports, as such development projects will generate employment for the youth of the State.
He was of the view that every society evolves with time with better understanding and thinking. “There was a time when people did not want roads from their villages. But now people want national and state highways covering the entire State,” Pala further said.
“Every year, the state of Meghalaya produces around 30,000 matriculates and around 15,000 graduates. Among these only a small percentage manages to secure either government jobs or in private sector. If the state gets development projects, these will employment opportunities for many more such educated youths,” Pala added.
He further said, the government is working on formula seeking to end the impasse over the proposed railway project in the State.
The influential students’ body, Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) has been opposing the proposed railway project fearing unabated influx of outsiders into the hill state. The KSU has been demanding designated entry and exit points in the State before going ahead with the rail project.