By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Nov 9: Concerned over the unabated pollution of the once pristine Umngot River, stakeholders have expressed anguish over lapses in environmental compliance and called for constant monitoring and daily reviews of the ongoing works along the river, warning that continued negligence could permanently scar one of Meghalaya’s most iconic water bodies.
Meghalaya Rural Tourism Forum (MRTF) President Alan West Kharkongor on Sunday said although steps have been taken to address the issue, the state government must show far greater seriousness in protecting the river that has long been the pride of Meghalaya and a symbol of national beauty.
“The Prime Minister himself mentioned the Umngot River in his Mann Ki Baat speech. Losing what he once called the nation’s pride should be a matter of deep concern for all,” he said.
Kharkongor stressed that development and conservation must go hand in hand. “Development is needed, but not at the cost of the environment. The damage is already extensive, and for Umngot to recover, action must be taken seriously. Otherwise, the bread and butter of many families will be lost,” he warned.
Referring to the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)-aided Shillong-Dawki Road project, Kharkongor said it was alarming that environmental safeguards appear to have been compromised.
“I am sure JICA should have been careful about ensuring environmental safety. I don’t know how such extensive damage has been allowed — this agency seems to have ignored crucial safeguards,” he said.
He added that the impact of the project has also reached the Wahrew River, once known for its pristine waters.
“Everyone is concerned about this issue, but the implementing agency has not taken it seriously enough even after repeated flagging of the problem,” he said, referring to complaints raised by the Tourism Society of Darrang Elaka, which alleged that the NHIDCL had failed to act despite local appeals.
Kharkongor said that while the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board’s decision to impose a fine of Rs 15 lakh on NHIDCL was a step in the right direction, punitive action alone was insufficient.
“It is their responsibility to ensure such incidents don’t happen. Monitoring, day-to-day reports, and regular reviews of the ongoing work are essential to prevent further harm,” he said.
He further emphasised that compliance must be verified continuously on the ground, not from distant offices. “You cannot rule from Shillong or Delhi while nothing happens at the site. Day-to-day monitoring and feedback are a must if we want to save our rivers,” Kharkongor added.
