JOWAI, Aug 6: Members of Khooid Ya Ka Wah Myntdu (KYM), a voluntary organisation dedicated to protecting the Myntdu river on Wednesday discussed strategies for preserving the cleanliness and purity of Wah Myntdu, which flows through Jowai town and serves as a crucial source of water for drinking, irrigation of paddy fields, and other needs of residents in Jowai and nearby villages.
During a press briefing at the Chilliang Raij Community Hall, KYM president KL Pariat stated that the organisation has been concerned about the pollution of the Myntdu River for the past five years. The group has consistently observed and listened to public grievances regarding the river’s deteriorating condition. In response, KYM has filed complaints with the High Court and the Principal Bench of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) in New Delhi. He mentioned that the NGT has already held four to five hearings concerning the river’s restoration.
Another KYM member, Rupaia Lamar, recalled that in past years the river was severely polluted, prompting the organization to take proactive steps. He also noted that the NGT has taken the issue seriously and that another hearing is scheduled for August 22, convened by the Tribunal.
JM Pohsngap, retired IFS officer and KYM member, expressed deep concern over the ongoing degradation of the river due to the construction of roads, houses, and other structures along its banks.
While acknowledging that development cannot be entirely avoided, he emphasised the urgent need for measures to mitigate environmental damage. One of the key proposals put forward by KYM is the planting of trees along the riverbanks, seen as an effective step toward protecting the river’s ecosystem.
As a way forward, KYM is calling for collective community action. They are inviting residents of Jowai and neighboring villages—along with traditional institutions such as Doloi Seiñ Raij Tuber, Seiñ Raij Ïalong, Seiñ Raij Chyrmang; church leaders; the President and General Secretary of Seiñ Raij Jowai; Synjuk Waheh Chnong Ri Jaiñtia; the President and General Secretary of Synjuk Waheh Chnong Jowai; and other civil society organisations—to participate in a public meeting on August 9 at the Chilliang Raij Community Hall, Jowai.
