Ri-Bhoi DC prohibits use of plastics below 120 microns
NONGPOH, June 13: The Deputy Commissioner of Ri-Bhoi has directed all stakeholders, including commercial establishments, e-commerce companies, online marketplaces, stockists, distributors, retailers and the general public to strictly refrain from stocking, distributing, selling or using plastic carry bags that are less than 120 microns in thickness. This directive has been issued in the wake of a notification issued by the Centre and the public notice issued by the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB), which prohibit the manufacture, import, stocking, distribution, sale and use of identified single-use plastics and plastic carry bags below the prescribed thickness. In its order, the deputy commissioner urged full compliance with the plastic ban to help reduce environmental pollution and promote sustainable alternatives.
MSPCB prohibits open burning, industrial emission beyond limit
NONGPOH, June 13: The Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) has prohibited open burning and the operation of industrial plants that discharge air pollutants in excess of the permissible standards within designated air pollution control areas. In its order, the MSPCB warned that any person found violating the order will be liable for punishment, including imprisonment. The MSPCB has also directed that waste generators must not throw, burn or bury solid waste on streets, in open public spaces, drains or water bodies. Additionally, street sweepers have been instructed not to burn tree leaves collected during sweeping. Instead, the leaves should be stored separately and handed over to waste collectors or agencies authorised by local bodies. It may be mentioned that the directive has been issued in the wake of a recent inspection conducted by the MSPCB officials at the Umiam and Byrnihat Industrial Estates, where widespread instances of air pollution were discerned. The inspection had revealed fugitive emissions, excessive stack emissions and illegal burning, all contributing significantly to deteriorating air quality in the area.
BSF troops seize contraband items
SHILLONG, June 13: In multiple intelligence-based operations, the Border Security Force (BSF), Meghalaya Frontier, successfully thwarted an attempt to smuggle contraband goods near the Indo-Bangladesh border. Acting on tip-offs, the troops of 4th Battalion BSF detected suspicious movements during routine surveillance in the East Khasi Hills and West Jaintia Hills. Launching search operations, BSF personnel intercepted a vehicle carrying a large quantity of contraband items valued at over Rs 37 lakh and apprehended two Indian nationals. The individuals failed to produce any valid documents for the goods. Meanwhile, the apprehended persons and the seized contraband have been handed over to the concerned police authorities for further investigation and legal proceedings.