SHILLONG: The Hynñiewtrep Youth Council, West Jaiñtia Circle has asked the State Government to institute an independent inquiry after the Sonapur River turned blue.
General Secretary, Andy .R. Dkhar has sought the inquiry to ascertain the reason behind the cause of the river turning blue and to punish culprits involved.
The change of colour has affected the residents of Sonapur, Khatdum and other adjacent areas since the water cannot be used for daily household chores.
Dkhar questioned the silence of National Green Tribunal and environmentalists with regard to this issue as he alleged that the reason behind the blue colour is the presence of cement companies at Lumshnong , East Jaintia Hills district and its adjoining areas which deposit wastes into the river.
He further added that the trend is that the river turns blue during the winter season and fishes die as the river gets poisonous as well.
At the same time, he asked the State Government to repair the Sonapur bridge where cracks have surfaced on both sides, posing a risk to vehicles that ply over the bridge.
