JOWAI: The River Myntdu which is the main source of water supply in Jowai in under threat from various human activities.
In a bid to protect the river from being polluted, the District Magistrate, West Jaintia Hills has under Section 144 CrPC imposed restrictions on all coal mine owners directing them to make sure that the runoff water from their coal deposits does not reach River Myntdu.
The downstream of the River Myntdu has been severely polluted by coal mining and the upstream too is under threat from various activities including washing of vehicles in the river, disposal of waste materials and mushrooming of car wash centres at Riat-Turiem.
In his order, the District Magistrate also prohibited the washing of vehicles in or at the bank of the river. All vehicle repairing/washing workshops nearby the river have been directed to make sure the runoff greasy water from their centres does not reach the river. Throwing of domestic wastes into the river has also been prohibited.
The prohibition has been imposed after receiving reports that the colour of the water in River Myntdu has changed to bright sky blue.
“If anybody is found violating the order, he/she shall be prosecuted under section 188 IPC and under specific acts.”
If anyone witnesses any violation of the order he/she can directly report it to 94363 94363 with specific information.