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Pollution Board Orders Waste Removal From Umngot as Road Works Blamed for Turbidity

Inspectors reported debris sliding into the river from the ShillongDawki project, prompting directives to NHIDCL to comply with environmental safeguards.

Overview

  • MSPCB invoked Section 5 of the Environment (Protection) Act to order immediate removal of construction and demolition waste from the Umngot.
  • The inspection found turbid water at Shnongpdeng and observed loose fill and hill-cutting debris sliding toward the river near the Pynursla–Dawki and new bridge sites.
  • Contractors were told to apply for Consent to Establish and Operate within 15 days and to follow the Meghalaya Stone Crusher Order on legal sourcing of boulders.
  • Water samples were collected for laboratory analysis, and the Project Management Unit was asked to submit an action-taken report.
  • NHIDCL said bench-cutting, barriers and debris clearing are in place as it seeks reports from contractors, while the Shillong MP and tourism groups pressed for accountability and inspections.