By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: Construction of the proposed slaughter house (abattoir) at Mawlai Mawiong is set to face another roadblock, as this time, people of the area have decided to end their opposition to the construction of the abattoir only if the State Government promised to remove the garbage dumping ground from the area and provide safe drinking water for the people of the area.
Rangbah Shnong of Mawiong Umjapung, T Kharkongor, on Sunday said, “We have prepared our fresh demands in black and white which would be handed over to the Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Minister on Monday.”
The Rs 22-crore project sanctioned by the State Government with the purpose of easing the burden of the butchers in and around the city has not taken off yet due to oppositions from the Dorbar Shnongs.
The people of the area have expressed concerns that the first stage of the construction work had affected the drinking water supply in the area and further construction would wreck havoc on the whole community in terms of health and environmental effects.
State Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Minister BM Lanong, however, dismissed concerns of hygiene raised by the people, saying that the abattoir would be spacious and far from habitation. “It would be fully enclosed, scientific and there is no fear of any health hazard,” Lanong said on Sunday.
He also stressed on people’s cooperation saying, “It is very important for the locals to co-ordinate with the Government in maintaining a healthy environment. The construction of the abattoir in Mawlai Mawiong requires immense participation and cooperation of the people of that area and the nearby localities.”
He further informed that the Government had already initiated the process for construction of abattoirs in Jowai and Tura.
“We have to take note of the time frame, so it is very important to start implementing the project at the earliest,” he added.
“People should realize the need to set up a proper place for meat to be treated in a healthy manner to avoid any fallout on their health. Besides, the project is in accordance with the direction of the Supreme Court,” he said.
Lanong further mentioned that the department has decided to allow local butchers to slaughter pigs and cows by themselves inside the abattoir provided they first receive proper training and sign the necessary agreement.