By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, July 15: The KHADC has announced the immediate closure of an illegal stone quarry operating above the Wahniangleng reservoir, which supplies water to the Mawphlang dam and subsequently to homes falling under Greater Shillong.
KHADC Chief Executive Member (CEM) Pyniaid Sing Syiem stated on Monday that council staff have been directed to shut down the illegal quarry on Tuesday. “We will not allow the operation of any illegal quarry within the jurisdiction of the council,” Syiem asserted.
It may be noted that in February, The Shillong Times reported on the illegal stone quarry above the Wahniangleng reservoir. Following the report, the Dorbar Shnong of Laitkynsew disclosed that the quarry was initiated by the former Sordar of Elaka Laitkroh without approval from the KHADC or any other government agency. Both the state government and the KHADC acted promptly, resulting in the quarry’s closure, which was previously supplying boulders to Bangladesh.
Recently, residents of the Wahniangleng area informed The Shillong Times that the quarry had resumed operations, with the sound of dynamite explosions reverberating across the area. Villagers fear that the quarry, located in the catchment area feeding Wahniangleng, could lead to the drying up of the river and severe water scarcity downstream. Concerned citizens who visited Wahniangleng on Sunday reported the quarry’s resumed operations to Chief Secretary DP Wahlang, who swiftly responded by dispatching a Forest department team to inspect the site. The officers met the Headman of Laitkroh and verified the quarry’s ongoing operations, despite a prior ban.
The officers confirmed that an offence report had already been filed for the area and that they would check records and seize materials as necessary. Meanwhile, Council CEM Pyniaid Sing Syiem, who was also informed of the situation, reiterated that the KHADC would take the necessary action on Monday to ensure the illegal quarry is permanently shut down.