Meghalaya Names New Waterfall After Deputy CM Sniawbhalang Dhar

A waterfall in Meghalaya’s West Jaintia Hills district has been named after Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar, in recognition of his contribution to the development of the area and efforts to resolve issues linked to tourism management.

The waterfall was officially christened ‘Sniawbhalang Dhar Waterfalls’ during a programme held at Amtharonh Pdeng Thangchap in the Amlarem subdivision on Sunday. Dhar also laid the foundation stone for a tourism development project at the site.

According to the organisers, the site was donated by Raid Buam, a traditional administrative territory and community institution responsible for managing local natural resources. The gesture was made in recognition of Dhar’s role in addressing issues concerning the management of the Krangshuri tourist spot, as well as his contribution to the development of the region. Raid Buam representatives also felicitated the deputy chief minister during the programme.

Dhar also laid the foundation stone for an afforestation initiative under the Regeneration Meghalaya Project, under which 20 lakh saplings are planned to be planted in the Raid Buam forest.

Addressing the gathering, Dhar said he would return to the area to help expedite ongoing tourism development projects. He highlighted the state government’s efforts to strengthen the tourism sector, noting that around 5,000 homestays have been promoted across Meghalaya, alongside hotels and other accommodation facilities.

Dhar said Meghalaya was steadily emerging as a preferred travel destination, with tourism infrastructure and community participation playing an important role in the sector’s growth.

The development comes nearly six years after the inauguration of Sanbor Shullai Road in Shillong, which was the first road in Meghalaya to be named after a sitting legislator.

Deputy Commissioner Abhinav Kumar Singh, Superintendent of Police Jagpal Singh Dhanoa, Amlarem SDO Vevotolu Kezo and office-bearers of Raid Buam were among those present at the programme.