SHILLONG: Taking serious note of the pollution of the various water bodies, the KHADC is contemplating to come up with a strong legislation to deal with the menace.
“We have accorded top priority to safeguarding and protecting various water bodies within our jurisdiction. We have felt the need to formulate a strong legislation after witnessing the pollution of the water bodies and rivers due to human activities,” KHADC CEM Adelbert Nongrum told newsmen on Tuesday following his meeting with members of the KSU and Mawiong Dorbar Shnong on the pollution of Umiam river.
He also said that the Council has taken a stand to protect the environment since the NGT is keeping a close watch on the efforts which are being taken up on this front.
Nongrum, however, informed that the Water Resources department which was constituted two years back is yet to implement rules and laws to address the issue concerning pollution of the rivers and water bodies.
Referring to the pollution of Umiam river, the KHADC CEM informed that they have decided to conduct a joint inspection of the sites where alleged pollution by private companies is taking place. The proposed inspection was based on the complaint lodged by the KSU Umiam circle and Mawlai circle against four companies – YFC, Nikton Ford, Mahindra and Toyota – for allegedly indulging in indiscriminate dumping of soil on the Umiam river bank.
According to the KSU, irresponsible dumping of earth, sand and stone from the construction site by the four companies has polluted the river thereby affecting the residents of the villages situated along the stretch of this river.
“After the inspection, necessary order will be passed to ensure those responsible are punished as per the law,” Nongrum said.
Earlier, the KHADC on November 12, had conducted a surprise inspection of the Umiam river and had submitted a report to the CEM.
Referring to the report, Nongrum said that photo clippings submitted along with the report clearly showed that the allegations made by the complainants were genuine.
Speaking to reporters, general secretary of the KSU Mawlai circle, Rapborlang Nongrum, expressed disappointment over the failure of the four companies in question to attend the meeting convened by the CEM.
He also warned that if these companies failed to attend the proposed joint inspection on Friday, the KSU will pressurize the KHADC to take stern action against them.