Govt pulls temporary plug on livestock check post at Umling

SHILLONG, May 21: The state government has suspended the operations of its livestock check post at Umling on the request of National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).
Elucidating further, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Minister Sanbor Shullai, in a statement, informed that his department was asked by the NHAI to seek permission for installing a check post at Umling.
“The check post will remain suspended till permission from NHAI is obtained. The department will seek permission with NHAI and also, if necessary, will seek alternative arrangement for installation of gate in other area within the jurisdiction of state government most probably at 9th mile at the entry point for checking of transit permit and health certificate for allowing transportation of livestock into state,” the statement said.
The minister also informed that his department will ensure that other arrangements including proper security and facilities for doctors and staff, and installation of CCTV cameras will be taken care of once the gate is up and running again.
Shullai has also assured that his department will put in place stringent measures by working in tandem with the Police department to address the issue of illegal transportation in the state.
“The department will ensure that all unauthorised livestock markets in Byrnihat without proper facilities will be closed and notice will be served to all those livestock markets,” he said, adding that the matter is also being taken up with the BSF.
He said aim of a livestock check gate is to not only ensure that diseased animal do not enter Meghalaya but also to prevent the illegal transportation of cattle to Bangladesh.