Shillong, Jun 28: The Hynñiewtrep Integrated Territorial Organisation (HITO) has expressed deep concern over recent reports published by a prominent national news outlet regarding the alarming level of air pollution in Byrnihat, which straddles the Meghalaya-Assam border.
HITO president Donbok Dkhar said the report, which identified Byrnihat as one of the most polluted areas in India, has drawn widespread public attention and raised serious questions about the impact of industrial activities on the environment and public health.
Among the concerns highlighted is the operation of an ethanol manufacturing plant by a private company in the region. Dkhar stated that this issue has already become a matter of concern for various organisations, pressure groups, and environmentally conscious citizens across Meghalaya.
The company, Umiam Distillation Pvt Ltd, shares a promoter with Badri Rai Company, a big winner of contracts in Meghalaya, several of which have been plagued by construction problems.
“HITO strongly believes that protecting Meghalaya’s environment must be treated as a matter of the highest priority,” he said. “Our state has long been known for its rich forests, clean rivers, and natural beauty. It is, therefore, deeply distressing that Meghalaya is increasingly associated with environmental degradation and pollution. We strongly condemn any action or policy that, in our view, prioritises private commercial interests over the health, safety, and environmental well-being of the people.”
The plant is supposed to be equipped with advanced technology to ensure zero discharge into the environment and low water usage.
Dkhar said HITO is particularly concerned about the potential environmental and public health impacts associated with industrial emissions and pollution. “Residents have expressed fears regarding deteriorating air quality and its possible effects on respiratory health and overall quality of life,” he said. These concerns, it added, deserve immediate attention from the concerned authorities through transparent investigations, continuous environmental monitoring and strict enforcement of pollution control measures.
In light of these developments, he said that HITO announced that it will soon organise a democratic and peaceful public protest against the continued operation of the ethanol factory unless the concerns of the local people are adequately addressed.
Furthermore, Dkhar called upon the people of Meghalaya, particularly the residents of Ri-Bhoi, to remain vigilant and united in protecting “our land, our environment and the health of future generations.”
