Student body opposes construction of cement plants in Narpuh

SHILLONG: The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) Narpuh circle opposed the setting up of new cement companies citing environmental damages inflicted on the existing cement companies in Narpuh area.
After meeting the Commerce and Industries Minister, Sniawbhalang Dhar, President of the KSU Narpuh circle, Kwilnis S Suchiang said, “The cement companies come in the name of development and the pollution from such cement plants affects the environment.”
He informed that there are 5 existing cement companies in Narpuh area that do not have Effluent Treatment Plants (ETPs) which has resulted in deterioration of the environment. In this regard, he cited the example of River Lukha which has become unfit for human consumption due to untreated discharge into the river.
He went on to add that the total loss of forest in the area is found to be around 1265.35 hectares from 2005 to 2011. Suchiang went on to claim that there are some cement companies which are likely to set up their plant in Narpuh area.
On the other hand, he said the tribal community is not getting any benefit as 60 per cent of the residents should get employed while he claimed that 80 per cent of the workers are outsiders.
Dhar, however, told the union leaders that the cement factories provides employment to the people and brings in development.