From Our Correspondent
TURA: Acting in response to strong public complaints regarding the sorry state of a public lavatory run by the Meghalaya Transport Corporation (MTC) in Tura, the West Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner (DC) has issued an order for rectification of dumping of untreated solid and liquid wastes endangering public health and safety by constructing a proper septic tank.
The DC said that in case the MTC failed to comply with the order within seven days of receipt of the order, the entire premises will be sealed and necessary action under Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code will be initiated against the erring officials.
Under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, 1973, the DC has prohibited disposal of waste, excreta and urine in streams or water bodies nearby and discharge of waste in any place other than a proper septic tank.
According to the complaints, the public lavatory run by the MTC on user pay basis in Tura Market area has no proper septic tank facility and is generating uncontrollable stench which has started having health repercussions on the people of the neighborhood and commuters.
Due to the untreated human excreta, solid and liquid waste is flowing down in an unhygienic manner hampering public health in general and the surrounding shops, houses and establishments in particular.
The DC stated that lack of treatment of the waste water is an indicator of glaring lapse of the MTC who own and operate the public urinal/toilet which is posing a severe health hazard for the people.