Department of Information and Public Relations

Press Release No. 73/09

RAIN ROCK FESTIVAL AT SOHRA

The first ever two day Rain Rock Festival ’09, Cherrapunjee was today held at Sa-I-Mika Park, Sohra on the theme “Unveil the Destination”. The Festival is being jointly organized by the Sohra Civil Administration in coordination with the Sohra Tourism Development Society and Press Information Bureau. Meghalaya Chief Minister, Dr. Donkupar Roy grace the inaugural function as the chief guest in the presence of the Parliamentary Secretary for Tourism, Ms. A Lyngdoh. The function was presided over by the chairman of the Meghalaya Tourism Development Forum, Mr. R G Lyngdoh.

It may be mentioned here that the main objective of organizing the festival is to explore the tourism potential of the world famous eco-tourism destination, to create mass level awareness about various development and welfare scheme of the Government for the overall development of the people, to promote local art, craft, sports an culture, to sensitize the people about protection of the environment and preservation of the biodiversity of Cherrapunjee, to enhance the opportunities of the people and to ensure peace an goodwill among all.

In his speech, Dr. Roy lauded the effort of the Sub Divisional Officer (civil), Sohra for organizing the festival for the benefit of the local populace and the tourist. He also said that out of 100 p.c. of tourist who visits the State, 90 p.c. visits Sohra for its name as the heaviest rainfall in the world. He urged upon the people of the area to work hand in hand with the Government for the overall development of the area.

Lamenting over the fact that Sohra lack in hospitality facility, he urged upon the people to set up hotel and guest house for the tourist so to enable them to stay overnight at the place. He then informed that the Tourism Department is trying its best to bring various schemes and programmes in the area so as to make the place one of the tourist destination of the State.

Other who spoke on the occasion included Parliamentary Secretary for Tourism, Ms. A Lyngdoh, SDO (c) Dr. B D R Tiwari, MDC, Sohra, Mr. T Dkhar and MDC, Shella, Mr T Chyne.

Earlier, a marathon from Mawsmai Cave to Sa-I-Mika Park was held which was followed by cycling from Mawkdok bridge to Sa-I-Mika Park. Later, the flower exhibition and departmental & industrial exhibition was inaugurated by Dr. Roy.

The highlights of the day included food festival, archery, essay, drawing competition, basketball match, cultural programme, singing and dancing competition.