SHILLONG, DEC 16: Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) chief executive member Adelbert Nongrum informed that he is proposing to come up with “strong laws” to preserve and protect the environment, especially the water bodies in the region, as the NGT is also keeping a closed-watch on environment.
After a meeting with KSU and dorbar shnong of Mawiong members to discuss issue related to the alleged pollution of River Umiam by companies held on Tuesday, Nongrum told reporters, “We proposed to come up with stringent laws so far as pollution the water bodies in the region is concerned. This will help in protecting and preserving the rivers and environment in the region.”
According to Nongrum, till today the water resources department of the KHADC, which is two years old, is yet to have proper laws relating to pollution of the rivers and their water bodies. He, however, said, “Strong and stringent regulations has to be put in place by the district council keeping in mind the National Green Tribunal (NGT) hawk eye on the state’s environment.”
During the meeting, the KHADC has also decided to conduct a joint inspection to sites where the alleged pollution by the private companies is taking place. “The joint inspection by the district council and KSU members will take place on December 16,” Nongrum informed.
The proposed inspection is being taken after complaint was lodged by the KSU Umiam circle and Mawlai circle against four companies – YFC, Nikton Ford, Mahindra and Toyota- for indiscriminate dumping of earth on the river bank of Umiam.
According to the KSU, the irresponsible dumping of earth, sands and stones from the construction works by the companies have polluted the river thereby affecting the residents of the villages situated along the stretch of this river.
Nongrum further informed, “After the inspection, necessary order will be passed to ensure those responsible are punished as per the law.”
On November 12, the district council had also conducted a surprise inspection wherein a report was also submitted to the CEM, Nongrum said. He said the photo clippings submitted along with the report clearly showed that the allegations made by the complaint is genuine, where it is seen that all sands dumped on the riverside are flowing towards the river.
According to Nongrum, this has not only affected the river but the residents who are using the river as a source for domestic and drinking purposes.
KSU Mawlai circle general secretary Rapborlang Nongrum expressed disappointment against the failure of these companies to attend the meeting convened by the CEM. He warned that if these companies failed to attend the proposed joint inspection on Friday, the KSU will pressurize the KHADC to take stern action against them.- By Our Reporter
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