Illegal stone quarrying in Chokpot
From Our Correspondent
TURA, Sep 3: The Chokpot Area Vigilance Committee (CAVC) has sought the intervention of the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) into the alleged illegal stone quarry being operated in the proximity of the Dareng river.
The committee recently met Deputy Chief Executive Member (CEM), Nikman Marak, and Executive Member (EM) in charge of Forest and Environment, Ashahel D Shira, and apprised them of the alleged illegal activity taking place despite strong opposition from the people of the area.
“As the issue of illegal quarrying of stones at the proximity of the Dareng river gained attention of many residents living nearby, it is important that such issue should be taken seriously in the light of the impact it could have on the health of the river ecosystem as well on the well-being of the residents of Chokpot,” the committee maintained.
During the meeting with Shira, he was apprised of the hazardous impact it could have on the people.
The GHADC EM is said to have assured to look into the matter pointing out that the land is owned by the Council as per the provisions of the Sixth Schedule. He is also said to have informed that the operators do not have NOC from the GHADC and therefore quarrying of stones cannot be allowed.
Meanwhile, the deputy CEM, Nikman Ch Marak, during their meeting, is reported to have given the same assurance to the committee members.