From Our Correspondent
NONGPOH, Nov 25: Jirang MLA Sosthenes Sohtun has urged the state government led by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma to review and halt the proposed conversion of the Conservation Training Institute under the Soil and Water Conservation Department in Byrnihat into an industrial estate.
His plea followed growing public opposition to the move.
Sohtun said he met with village leaders from areas such as Matchogre, Amphranggre, and Umpher to deliberate on the matter. As a resident and representative of the region, he felt the public’s opposition was justified and grounded in reason.
He said Byrnihat is already grappling with severe air pollution and the establishment of more factories would exacerbate the pollution levels, worsening the hardships faced by the local populace.
Sohtun expressed solidarity with the public and said that he submitted a formal letter to and discussed with the CM, requesting the government to suspend the proposed project. He urged the government to carefully reconsider the decision to ensure it does not adversely affect the well-being of the residents.
The MLA further said he is deeply concerned about the health and safety of the people. He added that he advised the CM to relocate the proposed industrial estate to areas within Hima Jirang as local leaders there have expressed willingness to provide land for the initiative. This, he argued, would address the need for development without compromising public health or the environment.
He also said he is actively following up on the specifics of the industries the government intends to establish. While acknowledging the potential benefits these industries might bring to the public, he emphasised the need to prioritise environmental conservation and public health above all else.
“The government must ensure that any such development does not harm the environment or jeopardise the health of the people,” Sohtun said.