Overview

• The Garo Students' Union and allied groups inspected the Paromgre/Pharomgre site in Chokpot on October 18 and reported large-scale extraction close to the Rompa, Rongdik, Khakiza and Rongma rivers.
• The coalition alleges visible pollution, silting and drying of tributaries and warns that operations near the Nokrek Biosphere Reserve threaten sensitive habitats and species such as the Hoolock gibbon and Himalayan black bear.
• Leaders cite earlier public remarks by MP Saleng A. Sangma and GHADC opposition leader Bernard N. Marak to suspect possible uranium exploration under the guise of coal mining, stressing severe radiation risks if confirmed.
• The groups say mining expansion would damage eco-tourism sites like Abong Chigat, Redingsni, Wari Chora and Tengte Rongrep and undermine livelihoods tied to fishing, farming and cottage industries.
• The NGOs have urged the Forest Department, the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board and other agencies to halt quarrying and revoke any illegal licences, warning of peaceful protests and legal petitions if authorities do not act.