By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Dec 7: A consultative meeting of the river rejuvenation programme, held with stakeholders on Thursday, dwelt on two stretches through which the rivers Umkhrah and Umshyrpi flow.
The areas discussed include Nongthymmai, Umpling, Nongmensong, Polo, Lower Lumparing etc.
Assistant Secretary of Lower Lumparing Dorbar Shnong, David Khongsngi said only two stretches of areas were discussed and the rest will be taken up in the next meeting scheduled for December 19.
A report of the joint inspection, carried out by the representatives of the state government and the Dorbar, was also tabled and discussed, David said.
He also said that the government wants the Dorbars to address the problem of people releasing their septic tank wastes into the rivers. He said the Dorbars can help if the government helps them first to deal with it as they do not have the means or money.
He said many BPL families reside along the riverbanks and when their soak pit is full, they discharge the waste directly into the river. He said the civic body is not taking the matter seriously.
The government should support the Dorbars so they can cooperate, he reiterated.
Referring to government’s statement that the Dorbars should also play a role, he asked how they will do that without support from the government and its machineries.
David said the Dorbars are giving their suggestions and going for inspections but if the government is not serious on the issue, a time will come when they will start losing interest.