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Umngot River: The debris and soil released during the construction work was flowing into the tributaries of Umngot River in West Jaintia Hills district.
Umngot River: The Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) has imposed a fine of Rs 15 lakh on the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), which is constructing the Shillong-Docki road project funded by Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). According to officials, the debris and soil released during the construction work was flowing into the tributaries of Umngot river in West Jaintia Hills district, due to which the water of the river became muddy. This river, once famous for its transparent water, has been a major tourist attraction in the Doki area. Following complaints from local residents and environmental groups, the MSPCB team conducted a site inspection last week and found that waste generated from road construction was being dumped directly into the river. The board has also directed NHIDCL to stop pollution and adopt proper waste management measures.
Instructions to pay fine within 15 days
In the notice issued by MSPCB Chairman R Nainamalai, NHIDCL General Manager (Projects) has been directed to pay Rs 15 lakh as environmental compensation for four specific locations. Where deficiencies were recorded. The Pollution Control Board has given the company 15 days to send the amount through demand draft or banker’s check payable to Member Secretary, MSPCB, Shillong, an official told PTI. He said the notice cited violations under Section 33A of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, Section 31A of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 and relevant provisions of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
Environmentalists welcomed the action
Officials said the road widening work, which is a major component of the Shillong-Docki National Highway project, has led to excessive dumping of excavated soil and construction waste on the slopes adjacent to the river. A senior official said that thus the negligence of the company has seriously affected the water quality and aquatic life. Environmentalists have welcomed the action, but have called for stronger monitoring mechanisms to prevent a recurrence. A local environmental advocate from Amalrem said the fine alone is not enough. Continuous site inspection and proper disposal system should be ensured. The Shillong-Docki road constructed by NHIDCL aims to improve connectivity to the India-Bangladesh border. However, residents have repeatedly raised concerns about the impact on the Umngot ecosystem due to unregulated debris disposal and uncontrolled sedimentation.
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