Shillong: The Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) has taken firm action, ordering the Project Management Unit-Mylliem to swiftly clear construction and demolition waste that has been illegally dumped into the Umngot River. This river, renowned for its exceptionally clear waters, has been significantly impacted by activities related to the Shillong–Dawki road project.
Following an inspection on Friday, MSPCB chairman R. Nanamalai invoked Section 5 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. The directive mandates strict adherence to the Standard Operating Procedure, ensuring all dumped waste is removed without delay. The inspection revealed that extensive earthwork and excavation for the Shillong–Dawki road had resulted in debris being deposited near the riverbanks without any measures for containment or stabilization.
Officials highlighted that recent filling operations by the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) near the Pynursla-Dawki Bridge, conducted without proper retaining structures like sandbags, have led to loose materials sliding into the Umngot. This poses a significant risk of erosion and sedimentation, with the MSPCB warning that the filled areas appear unstable and could trigger further landslides, particularly during rainfall. Similar siltation issues were noted near the new Dawki Bridge construction site due to hill cutting.
Local residents have expressed concern over the river’s diminished clarity, noting that it has become persistently murky in recent weeks, a stark contrast to its former reputation for glassy, reflective waters.
In addition to waste removal, the board has collected water samples for laboratory analysis and instructed all contractors to obtain the necessary Consents to Establish and Operate within 15 days. Compliance with the Meghalaya Stone Crusher Order, concerning the legal sourcing of boulders, has also been emphasized.
The Project Management Unit-Mylliem has been requested to submit an immediate action-taken report.