Williamnagar, Feb 23: Residents and members of various CSOs of the Garo Hills region, on Feb 21, held a meeting with representatives of the district administration to object the permission given by the state for the setting up of a stone quarry in Koksi Songma area near Songsak in the district of East Garo Hills.
A public meeting was held at the Cheran Alda Playground to oppose the permission granted for the operation of a stone quarry.
The meeting was organized by the headmen (Soldars) of 15 adjacent villages in the Koksi Songma area. Prominent pressure groups, including the A·chik State Peoples’ Front (ASPF), A·chik Dedicated Integrated Leaders (ADIL) and the Garoland State Movement Committee, also participated. Representatives from the East Garo Hills District Administration and the Songsak Police Station were present on behalf of the government.
The meeting was chaired by Probal N. Marak, the Soldar of Koksi Songma. Attendees, along with various CSOs voiced their strong opposition to the stone quarry operations in Koksi Songma and the surrounding villages. They expressed concerns about the pollution of the Chiwarte River, which flows through the quarry site and into the Chidrang River, severely impacting the villagers who rely on these water sources for drinking, laundry, bathing and agricultural activities. The continuous blasting at the quarry also disturbs and panics households located approximately 150 meters from the site.
The protestors also expressed fears that soil erosion from the quarry could lead to massive landslides, threatening nearby rubber and arecanut plantations.
“The reckless driving of heavy trucks poses significant risks to children, students, and the elderly, as these vehicles travel along the newly constructed PMGSY road, which serves as the only lifeline for more than 15 villages,” stated the protestors.
In light of these issues, both the public and pressure groups determined that they would not allow any stone extraction from this quarry. They called for an immediate revocation of the permission granted for its operation, warning that if their demands are not met, they will launch several democratic protests against the destruction of the environment.
The Magistrate informed the public that while he did not have the authority to revoke the permission but would forward their feedback to higher authorities.
Raksim Marak, Chief Organizing Secretary of ASPF, remarked that despite numerous complaint letters submitted to Chief Minister, Dr. Conrad Sangma, who also oversees the Forest and Environment portfolio, contradictory permissions were granted to operate the stone quarry. He questioned why the government, which publicly expresses concern about climate change and reforestation, does not take action. He urged the Chief Minister to reconsider and revoke the permissions immediately.
Balkarin Ch. Marak, acting Chairman of GSMC, expressed his displeasure over the government’s attitude, particularly following the recent death of an activist who was protecting the environment from quarry operations. He questioned why the government neglected such incidents and waited for another tragedy to occur. He condemned the forest department for granting a clearance certificate, emphasizing that their mandate is to protect the environment, not destroy it. He vowed to oppose the quarrying operations as long as he draws breath and stands with the community.
Francis Marak, Chairman of ADIL, also spoke, stating that the lack of proper inquiry and consideration for the public’s concerns is unacceptable and hugely detrimental to both the environment and the economy of the area. He warned that if the orders are not revoked, stronger agitation will occur in the future.
