Shillong, Aug 20: Climate activist Carmel Fedrick Malngiang has urged the Sohra Civil Sub-Division to intervene immediately on illegal waste dumping, vehicle washing in rivers, and contamination of the Daiñthlen River, a key drinking water source for several villages.
In a letter to the Sub-Divisional Officer, Malngiang flagged unregulated dumping at Lum Mawkyrdup in Hima Sohra, which he said has made the area unhygienic and is threatening the Rait Kteng and Daiñthlen river ecosystem. He also raised concern over washing of vehicles and picnicking along rivers including Umtynghiang and Daiñthlen, which he said pose a serious threat to public health.
Malngiang had a sample of tap water from Wahkaliar, sourced from the Daiñthlen River, tested at the State Food Testing Laboratory in Shillong on May 27, 2026. The report found excess micro-organisms including E. coli, Salmonella, Staphylococcus and Total Coliform, along with low pH. The lab declared the water unsafe for consumption without treatment.
Malngiang suspects pollution from tourist spots and waste dumped along the riverbanks.
The SDO assured that immediate action will be taken and a meeting with village heads and concerned departments will be convened.
Malngiang requested a ban on vehicle washing and picnicking in rivers and along banks, a joint inspection of the Daiñthlen with Sordars and Rangbah Shnongs, and sustainable solutions to halt dumping at Lum Mawkyrdup. He also appealed to residents of the Sohra region to take responsibility for protecting the environment for future generations.
