Activist flags concern over public health risk
SHILLONG, May 1: Concern has been raised after used blood sample tubes were found dumped along the banks of the Myntdu River near the dam area, with fears that the waste could contaminate the key drinking water source.
Environmental Activist Khroo L. Pariat expressed alarm over the incident, stating that fishermen had informed him about the discovery of the tubes, some of which reportedly still contained blood, lying barely two metres from the river.
He cautioned that heavy rainfall could wash the waste into the river, posing a serious risk to public health.
Following the report, Pariat indicated that a complaint was lodged with the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board. Officials from the board, along with an engineer from the Jowai Municipal Board, subsequently inspected the site. The municipal authorities have conveyed that steps will be taken to collect and dispose of the waste safely.
Pariat conveyed concern over what he described as irresponsible dumping of biomedical waste, warning that it reflects disregard for the environment and water sources. He added that there is suspicion regarding those responsible and indicated that legal action could follow if accountability is not established.
He further stressed that such incidents must not recur and suggested that authorities, including the district administration and the district council, need to address the issue more effectively.
