SHILLONG, July 2: The Hynniewtrep Youths’ Council (HYC) has criticised Health Minister Wailadmiki Shylla over his response to the pollution crisis in Byrnihat, accusing the government of failing to address the issue with the required seriousness.
The council’s reaction follows the Minister’s claim that no formal complaints have been lodged regarding the health impact of polluting industries in the area.
In a statement issued Thursday, the HYC said the Minister’s remark reflects a lack of concern for public safety. The organisation pointed out that Byrnihat has long been plagued by industrial pollution and toxic air, making it unacceptable for the government to cite a lack of written complaints as a reason for inaction.
The HYC further questioned why the Health department has not conducted an independent assessment of the public health impact, despite persistent reports of environmental degradation in the industrial belt.
The council has called for strict action against factories violating environmental norms.
