Meghalaya Opens Biological Park After 25 Years to Promote Conservation

SHILLONG: Meghalaya Biological Park inaugurates its first phase after more than 25 years of its design, holding high hopes for significant biodiversity conservation in the state.

The park shall present a great learning opportunity to the future generations of visitors and is crucial for protecting Meghalaya's natural heritage.

Chief Minister Sangma spoke of his satisfaction with the completion of the project, referring to its long wait and describing it as one of the milestones. Reportedly, he said it was an important step at the inauguration of the park, but much work would be required to make it properly functional and vibrant.

He talked about the park's significance as more than a simple recreational space, referring to its role in engaging youngsters and promoting environmental responsibility.

Located at Umtrew, the project faced various challenges and delays throughout its 24-year history. It had a host of guests on the day of the culmination, including the Minister for Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, A.L. Hek, MLA Celestine Lyngdoh, Chief Advisor Lakhmen Rymbui, and Chief Secretary D.P. Wahlang.

The Chief Minister, while addressing the event, apparently highlighted the commitment of the government to take the park to its culmination as part of its commitment towards ecological balance and development.

It was observed that although many parts of the park, including ticketing counters, cafeterias, souvenir shops, and enclosures, are still under construction, the authorities decided to open this part to generate community interest and momentum. This park is expected to serve as a shelter for rescued animals, giving them a haven and remedying the lack of such a place in the wild.

According to the reports, Sangma emphasized such initiatives for coexistence between humans and wildlife. He reportedly stressed how such efforts could enlighten the public, particularly children, on developing feelings of empathy and responsibility towards nature.

The Chief Minister also talked about the larger vision of the government to revive stalled projects and enhance conservation efforts through the collection of comprehensive data and research.

He said that this would help track the population of flora and fauna, identify threats, and reduce human-wildlife conflicts. He reportedly pointed out that such conflicts arise due to human encroachment into natural habitats and that there is a need for mutual respect between humans and wildlife.

According to his vision for the park, Sangma is said to have proposed to transform it into a big tourist destination for both nature lovers and local people.

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