SHILLONG: The Hynñiewtrep A`chik National Movement (HANM) has complained to the Deputy Commissioner, East Jaiñtia Hills district against the authorities of Star Cement Company Ltd, Lumshnong.
Shaniahlang Suchen, president and Ency Shadap, general secretary, HANM alleged that the cement company violated the environmental standards by using powerful equipment to cut stones for the cement factory adjacent to the cave Liat Hati, Lummynshiang.
“The unhealthy practices of the company have damaged the beauty of the cave and the water from this source to be distributed to the villages has stopped,” Suchen said.
The company has, however, assured the owner of the cave, Phren Shylla that it will recover the damage by cleaning the cave, which was not done till date. The organization has threatened to move the court if the office of the Deputy Commissioner fails to act.
HANM against toll gate construction
HANM submitted a memorandum to the PWD Minister, Sniawbhalang Dhar where they voiced their objection against the proposed construction and installation of toll gate all along the stretch of NH-44 (Jowai-Khliehriat-Malidor) by National Highway Authority of India (NHAI).
It stated that NHAI planned to install and construct toll gate at two locations within East and West Jaintia Hills Districts for the purpose of toll collection from all classes of vehicles plying on NH-44 at an exorbitant rate which is unreasonable and unjustifiable as it will pose hardship for the people who are currently facing financial constraints.
“The general public of East and West Jaintia Hills Districts are in poor financial condition due to the ban on coal mining and its negative effects on other economic related activities. Moreover, the construction of toll gates will lead to many illegal and unlawful activities in the days to come,” Shaniahlang B Suchen, president HANM, Jaiñtia Hills District said.
“We have seen the toll gate collection at Ri-Bhoi affects the people financially, we do not want the same plight to happen in Jaintia Hills,” Suchen said.
“If NHAI proposes to set up a toll gate, we will not accept and oppose it right away and we will send a memorandum to NHAI to discontinue the proposed plan.” he said.
On the part of the Minister, he informed that he is unaware of the development as it is the jurisdiction of the Central Government. However, he assured them the matter will be looked into.
