SHILLONG: A senior citizen in Williamnagar has complained that a person is running a rice mill without abiding by guidelines and mandatory noise pollution norms. Kroshnil D Sangma said the rice mill is being operated in a residential area of Kusimkolgre in Williamnagar even after the deputy commissioner warned the owner of stern action. He said in the past three months, Deouty Commissioner Ram kumar has issued three notices to mill owner Wilme K Marak and her husband Sengkan N Marak, directing them to set up “scientific sound proofing system” in the rice mill, and report compliance of his orders.
But the orders have fallen on deaf ears as the rice mill continues to make high decibel noise and vibration causing “unbearable problem” to their immediate neighbourhood, Sangma said in his complaint to the DC. He said the rice mill operates an 8hp diesel set motor, which has been installed in a bamboo-walled house that is unable to ensure noise reduction as per the prescribed limits. “The noise and the vibration are affecting my mental peace and is also worsening my health,” he added. When contacted, Ram Kumar said a magisterial inquiry was conducted into the matter.
“The owner of the mill has been asked to get a clearance from the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board, besides he has been asked to take measures to reduce the noise,” he said.
