During a public hearing at the proposed landfill location in Nonghali, residents from 15 villages staged a road blockade, bringing the proceedings to a standstill. The protest underscored widespread opposition to the proposed project among the local communities
SHILLONG, Jan 16: After a tension-packed audience with the local populace, the Meghalaya government has assured that it will not proceed with constructing a waste management plant and landfill site at Lum Sohlait, Nonghali, East Khasi Hills, without the consent of local residents.
Chief Minister Conrad Sangma made this statement following a public hearing on Thursday, during which residents from 15 villages staged a road blockade, bringing the proceedings to a standstill. The protest underscored widespread opposition to the proposed project among the local communities.
“We will not act against the wishes of the people and will work toward convincing them,” Sangma said, adding that the government is already exploring alternative locations for the project.
The proposed waste management plant and landfill site have faced significant resistance from various villages, with communities raising concerns about potential environmental and health risks. This opposition reflects a broader trend of reluctance across the state to host such facilities.
The urgency for a new waste management solution has intensified, as the current landfill site on the outskirts of Shillong is reportedly in a critical condition. However, identifying a suitable and mutually agreeable location for the new facility remains a significant challenge due to persistent public opposition.
The chief minister emphasised the government’s commitment to resolving the issue through dialogue and mutual understanding. He assured that efforts would continue to find an alternative site while addressing the concerns of the affected communities.
This situation highlights the ongoing challenge in Meghalaya of balancing infrastructural development with community consent and environmental sustainability.