By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Nov 20: Amid mounting public pressure over the alleged pollution of the Umngot River, the state government will hold a review meeting on Friday to examine the findings of the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) and all agencies involved in the inspection of the Shillong-Dawki Road project.
Three joint inspections were carried out in October and November by teams comprising the MSPCB, NHIDCL engineers, and project contractors to assess the alleged environmental impact. These inspections covered all active construction stretches, with detailed checks in sensitive zones along the Umngot River and its tributaries — areas repeatedly flagged by local stakeholders.
Officials confirmed that the complete findings will be placed before Friday’s district-level review chaired by the Deputy Commissioner concerned, with officials of the NHIDCL and MSPCB, and all stakeholders in attendance. The meeting will evaluate the fact-finding report and determine the further course of action.
Authorities have stated that penalties imposed under specific provisions of the law can only be waived if the agency concerned proves it is not responsible for the violations.
The issue gained urgency after Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, on October 30, assured a delegation from tourism societies under the Darrang Elaka Dalloiship that their concerns over the river’s discolouration would be examined.
The delegation, led by Pyrwa Lymba, the Dalloi of Elaka Darrang, included representatives of the Darrang Tourism Promotion and Development Society, the Shnongpdeng Tourism Development Society, and the Dawki Tourism Development Society. They submitted a memorandum demanding a fact-finding committee and immediate remedial steps.
Meanwhile, the NHIDCL has approached the MSPCB seeking a waiver of the Rs 15 lakh penalty imposed for allegedly polluting the Umngot River, even as the matter moves toward Friday’s crucial review.
