Meghalaya: NPP MLA Marthon J Sangma Allays Influx Fears In Garo Hills, Highlights Economic Benefits From Rail Project

Sangma attributed the state's strong Land Tenure System as a safeguard, preventing non-tribal individuals from purchasing land and ensuring no such influx occurs.

Marthon J Sangma, MLA of the ruling National People’s Party (NPP) from the Mendipathar constituency in Meghalaya, has dismissed concerns that the introduction of railways in the Garo Hills region could lead to an influx of outsiders.

Speaking to Northeast Live, Sangma attributed the state’s strong Land Tenure System as a safeguard, preventing non-tribal individuals from purchasing land, settling down and snatching jobs of locals.

“Not even a single issue of influx has come to my knowledge till now. In Meghalaya, we have the Land Transport Act in place, so no outsider or non-tribal person can purchase land in Garo Hills,” Sangma said.

He emphasized the transformative impact of the Mendipathar Railway Station, which has spurred economic growth and created new opportunities for local farmers, especially women. The station has enabled farmers to transport organic vegetables and other agricultural products to Guwahati, where they fetch higher prices.

“Railway introduction is a great boon for the industrial and economic conditions of the people, which will improve over time. Farmers, particularly women, benefit greatly as transportation costs are minimal just Rs 60 for a round trip to Guwahati, where they sell their vegetables and agricultural products, which are organic and in high demandm at higher prices, ” Sangma said.

He also highlighted the recent establishment of industries in the Mendipathar Industrial Area after 30 years of inactivity.

Sangma credited Chief Minister Conrad Sangma for facilitating the entry of companies such as Pepsi, an alloy company, and food processing industries, which are now constructing factories.

These developments are expected to generate employment for local youth and provide opportunities for local suppliers to offer raw materials.

“With improved connectivity to Guwahati and Dimapur, industries will play a significant role in uplifting the socio-economic conditions of the people,” Sangma said, highlighting the far-reaching benefits of railways and industrial development for the region.

The Mendipathar Railway Line, operational since November 2014, has placed Meghalaya on India’s railway map, connecting the Garo Hills to the rest of the country.

While the expansion of railway networks to other regions of the state, such as Khasi and Jaintia Hills, has faced resistance, the Mendipathar rail link has demonstrated its potential to drive development in the region.

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