SHILLONG, May 4: The state government is actively coordinating with the Brahmaputra River Board to conserve and protect the Simsang River basin.
Informing this, PHE Minister Marcuise N Marak said, “We have already discussed this matter on the platform of the Brahmaputra River Board. They have sought certain clarifications, which the department will soon provide.”
Highlighting other related initiatives, Marak said that a sensitisation programme was conducted in Williamnagar regarding the protection of the Simsang and other river basins.
He added that the government is engaging with all Nokmas, whose villages lie near the river basin, to discourage jhum cultivation.
Assuring that alternative livelihood options will be introduced in collaboration with local stakeholders, the PHE minister urged the communities to extend full cooperation to the government’s efforts to curb large-scale jhum cultivation.
He also mentioned that apart from community leaders, the department is in touch with environmental activists to help conserve and protect the Simsang River and its critical catchment areas.
The minister further stated that while the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the Simsang River Basin will soon be submitted to the Brahmaputra River Board for consideration, local-level conservation efforts will continue.
The Simsang River is the longest river in Garo Hills. It originates in West Garo Hills and flows through East and South Garo Hills.
