From Our Reporter
Brichyrnot, Oct 2: The Dorbar Shnong of Brichyrnot village in East Jaintia Hills has announced its support for the upcoming public hearing by Star Cement, scheduled for October 8. The hearing pertains to the proposed limestone mining project in the area, which has sparked opposition from the Elaka Narpuh Youth for Change. Headman of Brichyrnot village, Stanly Massar stated that the village leadership stands united behind the project.
The proposed mining site covers approximately 65 hectares and lies within 500 metres of Brichyrnot village. It is also situated just 2 km from the eco-sensitive zone of Narpuh Wildlife Sanctuary, raising alarm among activists about potential environmental degradation. Under state regulations, any activities within 2 km of an eco-sensitive zone are prohibited. However, Star Cement has maintained that its project adheres to all guidelines set by the government, particularly those concerning the Mining department.
Despite these concerns, the Dorbar Shnong has held a series of meetings to discuss the mining project, during which residents unanimously decided to support the public hearing. “There are 60 households in Brichyrnot village, and we have discussed the proposed mining site extensively. We have reached a unanimous decision to support the public hearing,” said Massar.
Addressing the concerns of activists, Massar added that there has been no visible damage to the nearby Lunar river from Star Cement’s existing operations. “The river has not suffered any adverse effects from the cement plant’s activities,” he stated.
Responding to the opposition led by Elaka Narpuh Youth for Change, Massar distanced the village from the group. “We don’t even know who this group is, nor do we understand their objectives. As representatives of Brichyrnot, we fully support the public hearing,” he stated.