Panel dedicated to Umiam lake mooted

SHILLONG, Feb 19: The Expert Committee constituted by the state government to suggest measures for restoration and protection of water bodies in the state, in its third meeting, has resolved to set up a sub-committee to formulate guidelines and setting up by-laws specifically needed for Umiam lake.
“The meeting after detailed deliberation resolved to set up a sub-committee, as per directions of Meghalaya High Court in an order dated February 2, 2023 in PIL -10 of 2019 along with the members from the main committee to formulate the guidelines and furnish by-laws, specific for Umiam Lake to start with on a time-bound manner. There are also provisions to replicate the by-laws in case of other water bodies, based on situation of each site,” informed Chairman SEAC and Expert Member of the committee – Naba Bhattacharjee, who is also the spokesperson of the committee.
He informed that the working group will be headed by senior architect, Aiban Mawkhroh and shall comprise of District Urban Planner, MUDA, EKH, two representatives of KHADC, besides Larsing Sawyan, Chairman MTDF, Zorba Lalookharkolni, Conservationist, Rimeka Ranee, Urban Planner and one expert on aquatic life.
The main committee shall also draw up a comprehensive action plan for environment, suggest about the benign measures to be undertaken in the buffer zone where constructions are proscribed, 50 m from HFL (highest flood level) of water bodies that include mitigation measures to rejuvenate polluted water bodies.
During the meeting, IFS PCCF & HoFF, BK Lyngwa, outlined the progress made so far wherein information regarding polluted water bodies and stretches of rivers, sought from all DCs is being collated to be followed by specific action plan. He also informed that this committee shall also work in close coordination with state wetland authority and river rejuvenation committee to ensure an integrated approach.
Chairman SEAC and Expert Member of the committee, Naba Bhattacharjee, gave an overview of the polluting factors impinging on water bodies in the state with emphasis on Umiam Lake, including the relevant orders of Supreme Court, Meghalaya High Court and NGT on the matter from time to time.
Bhattacharjee also stressed on the importance of associating organisations and groups who are working in this field to have a holistic approach plan.