By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Aug 22: The Green-Tech Foundation (GTF) Meghalaya-India has cautioned the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (NHIDCL) against the harmful practice of dumping soil and debris into rivers during road construction activities.
The foundation submitted a memorandum to the Deputy General Manager of NHIDCL’s Regional Office in Shillong on Friday, expressing serious concern over environmental damage caused by ongoing road projects.
“We recognise the importance of infrastructure development for the progress of our state and its people. However, such development must not come at the cost of irreversible ecological damage,” said HBN Nonglang, chairman of the foundation.
He said indiscriminate dumping of soil and construction materials into rivers has been observed at various project sites. He warned this could lead to the degradation of river ecosystems, destruction of aquatic habitats, disruption of natural water flow, and increase the risk of flooding.
He further noted the adverse impact on local communities who rely on rivers for agriculture, fishing and other activities for livelihood.
He cited a recent incident during the construction of the Shillong-Tamabil highway near Mylliem, where large-scale dumping into the Umtyngar river was observed. He alleged that these actions were carried out under the supervision of NHIDCL officials, in violation of environmental norms and regulations. “This reckless and illegal activity has caused significant damage to the river’s environment,” Nonglang said, emphasising that such practices contravene environmental laws intended to protect natural resources.
He urged the NHIDCL to adhere strictly to environmental guidelines issued by the Central Pollution Control Board, the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board and other regulatory authorities.
Nonglang called for responsible and sustainable construction practices, including proper waste disposal mechanisms and environmental safeguards.
He urged the NHIDCL to ensure that all contractors and sub-contractors comply fully with environmental policies and laws during all ongoing and future projects across Meghalaya.
“The preservation of our environment is a collective responsibility. Sustainable development must remain the guiding principle in every project,” he stressed.
