Editor,
In politics we have politicians who often put their foot in their mouths without thinking of the consequences of their words. They also have the habit of retracting their words claiming they have been ‘misquoted’. The recent statements by Mr. Bindo Lanong, who is also the Deputy CM in-charge of geology and mining that cement firms in Jaintia Hills are not polluting rivers and that they are working within the ambit of environmental laws, sounds hollow. The Lukha and Kupli rivers have been polluted due to the unscientific and unconventional methods used in disposing off factory wastes in the open rivers, thereby destroying all aquatic life forms. However, this is not only against cement firms but also equally against unconventional methods used in coal mining. What is more shocking is Mr. Lanong’s posture to of supporting these companies which have been granted licenses by the JHADC and the Forest Department, to loot, rape and scoot. If there is so called ‘development’ then why are there villages in Jaintia Hills without motorable roads, health facilities, safe potable water, electricity and top of it any protection for the environment? No wonder, the mining policy is still pending perhaps to be used by the UDP as its poll campaign. Let us understand that in all these past 38 years of statehood the district councils that have been mandated by the Indian Constitution to protect the interests of the tribal areas have miserable failed in their duty. Perhaps it is time for them to be dissolved since their existence adds more burden to the state exchequer.
Yours etc.,
Dominic S.Wankhar
Shillong-3
Load shedding a boon for miscreants
Editor,
Load shedding we are told is an unavoidable and important step taken by the MeECL to cope up with the dry season of the year but it is posing serious problems for the people. Load shedding during the night should be avoided as it hinders students from preparing for the upcoming board exams. It also benefits thieves who move around easily under cover of darkness. Incidents of theft have only gone up in recent times. Load shedding should be resorted to during the day time rather than at night. If however that is not possible then the MeECL should ensure that the street lights are on throughout the night for the safety of residents. Load shedding should be carried in a planned and disciplined manner to avoid any troubles.
Your’s etc
R.Thapa.,
II
Editor,
The timing of the load shedding by MeECL is really a torture for the citizens of Shillong. Last week, miscreants attacked my aunt’s house as well as our neighborhood and now none of our locality households can sleep in peace. Does MeECL want us all consumers to keep awake the whole night? While understanding the problem face by the Corporation I urgently request the authorities concerned to shift the timings of the current load shedding programme. I suggest that the best time is from 8-11 AM. This is a timing that will not affect households or offices. I once again request MeECL please pay heed to our sufferings before it’s too late.
Yours etc.,
Bankiew B. Kharsyntiew,
Via email