Our Bureau
SHILLONG/KHLIEHRIAT, April 28: The Hynniewtrep Integrated Territorial Organisation (HITO) and the Hynniewtrep National Youth Federation (HNYF) have moved to oppose a proposed limestone mining project by Shree Cement Limited in East Jaintia Hills, demanding the suspension of a public hearing scheduled for next month.
The public hearing, organised by the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB), is set for May 22 at Lum Syrman village.
A HITO delegation, led by president Donbok Dkhar, submitted a memorandum to the Chairman of the State Environmental Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) on Tuesday, alleging irregularities.
Addressing reporters after the submission, HITO president Donbok Dkhar said the organisation’s opposition stems from both the scale of the project, which covers 217.394 hectares and includes stone crusher units, and complaints received from local residents.
Dkhar claimed that local residents have reported instances of land grabbing and coercion. HITO argued that the hearing should be deferred until a thorough investigation is conducted into how land was acquired and whether proper consent was obtained from landowners.
Meanwhile, the HNYF East Jaintia Zone submitted a separate petition to the Deputy Commissioner. The federation warned that the project could contaminate the Liteiñ River and damage fertile agricultural land.
The HNYF further highlighted health risks from air pollution and dust, particularly for children and the elderly. They also raised concerns regarding groundwater depletion, deforestation, and noise pollution. HNYF President Salty Ryngkhlem stated that the project offers little benefit to the local population and warned of further action if the authorities do not intervene to protect the environment and public rights.
