SHILLONG, Oct 12: Forest and Environment Minister James PK Sangma has revealed that the government is planning to introduce Integrated Command and Control Centre (IC&CC) for better management of forests in state.
“The process of establishment of IC&CC is in much progress. Once this system is put in place, our Forests will be managed in a better manner. I think we will be one of the best states in terms of use of Information Technology in innovative and effective way,” Sangma said, while addressing the Valedictory Function of Wildlife Week 2022 here on Wednesday.
Referring to Meghalaya Forest Regulation Act, 1973, which was adopted from Assam Forest Regulation Act, 1891, he said, “We have amended the Act thoroughly so that quantum of punishment is increased substantially. Also, most importantly, power of confiscation has been added to the Act.”
Touching upon livelihood generation, James said the state government, through Meghalaya Eco Development Society, is planning to utilise rich biodiversity and ecosystem of Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary for promotion of eco-tourism in and around Nongkhyllem.
According to him, the new generation is often unaware of Meghalaya’s strong ethos of conservation and protection of forests.
“Environmental education is becoming new tool of forest conservation. For better environmental education and tourism promotion, we are trying to establish Climate Change Museum in Shillong. It will add a feather in the cap of our state and it will also boost the tourism,” the forest and environment minister said.
Admitting that mining in Meghalaya has had adverse effects on the lives of commoners, he said pollution of rivers is one of such effects.
He, however, informed that the government has started restoration of polluted rivers using algae-based bioremediation.
“We have started the programme in Lukha and Khyrhuhkhla rivers in Jaintia Hills. I hope that people of Meghalaya, especially in Jaintia Hills, will get access to clean water in near future,” he said.
It was also informed that the government is working to declare many reserve forests as wildlife sanctuaries.
“Recently, the State Board for Wildlife under chairmanship of Chief Minister, approved the declaration of three new wildlife sanctuaries, viz. Emangiri Wildlife Sanctuary, Pitcher Plant Sanctuary in Baghmara Reserve Forest and Riat Khwan Wildlife Sanctuary,” he added.
