SHILLONG, July 3: The Dorbar Shnong of Rwiang on Thursday urged the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) to allow M/S Shree Shakambari Ferro Alloys Pvt. Ltd. to reopen its factory in the village, provided the company commits to adhering to the terms of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), particularly those aimed at minimising air pollution.
It may be noted that the residents of Rwiang, along with the Dorbar Shnong, had earlier locked and shut down the factory after the company failed to properly manage the disposal of fly ash, posing a serious threat to the Rwiang River.
Speaking to media persons after a meeting with MSPCB officials, the Sordar of Rwiang village, Wiljoy Iawphniaw, stated that around 70 per cent of the villagers depend on the factory for their livelihood.
When asked about the pollution concerns, Iawphniaw admitted that emissions from the factory had caused significant health issues and environmental damage in the area. He further warned that the Dorbar Shnong would not hesitate to shut down the factory again if it fails to safeguard the environment and the well-being of the villagers.
Meanwhile, MSPCB member secretary, GH Chyrmang, said the board had initially ordered the factory’s closure for over three months due to environmental violations.
A subsequent inspection by a task force found that the company had complied with the board’s directives, leading to the withdrawal of the closure order, in line with the principles of natural justice, Chyrmang said.
A supporter of the village, Mosklandar Marngar, recalled that the MSPCB had issued a closure notice on February 23, 2025, following the Dorbar Shnong’s action to shut the factory over environmental concerns.
Marngar, who is also the president of the Meghalaya Commercial Truck Owners and Drivers Association, stated that the pollution board’s decision to revoke the closure order was based on a report indicating the factory had cleaned up the fly ash from the river.
Raising concerns over the MSPCB’s decision to reduce the fine imposed on the company from Rs 33.60 lakh to Rs 8.40 lakh, Marngar argued that this move downplays the value of human life and environmental protection.
Clarifying the matter, the member secretary said the reduction in the fine was based on a review of provisions laid down by the Central Pollution Control Board.
