By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: The on-going construction of the Rs 22-crore abattoir (slaughter house) at Mawlai Mawiong has suffered another stumbling block with stern oppositions from the local Dorbar Shnong.
“The Dorbar is opposed to this construction because of the wrong choice of placement of the abattoir by the Veterinary department,” Rangbah Shnong of Mawiong Umjapung, Anthony Kharkongor, told reporters on Friday.
In this regard, a memorandum has also been sent to Chief Minister Dr Mukul Sangma on Friday, Kharkongor said. Kharkongor also informed that the Dorbar welcomes the project but the site of the abattoir is wrong since it is situated very close to the dumping ground at Marten.
“The health of the people may be affected as the waste from Marten may contaminate the meat and pose danger to the meat consumers of the State,” Kharkongor said.
When asked about any specific location which the Dorbar might suggest for the abattoir, Kharkongor said, “The decision is left with the government but we are firm in our decision to oppose the construction at the site chosen by the veterinary department.”
Meanwhile Kharkongor also spoke on the possible adverse effects on drinking water supply for the people of Mawlai area as according to him, the only source of drinking water has been contaminated following uncontrolled dumping of soil into the river.
“The condition might become worse especially during rainy season when all the soil will be let into the water and ultimately affect the pumps at the water treatment plant and subsequently pose health hazard to the residents of Mawlai,” Kharkongor added.
