Another three pressure groups have raised objections to the proposed establishment of a new cement factory in Wahiajer Narpuh, East Jaiñtia Hills.
The groups comprising of the Jaiñtia Women Council (JWC), United Youth Organisation (UYO) and All Jaiñtia Environment Organisation (AJEO) today submitted their objections to the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board through the Deputy Commissioner.
Like other pressure groups the contention to set up a new cement factory would have devastating consequences on the environment and the ecosystem of the area, which already has 10 cement factories operating.
“The cumulative environmental damage is already evident, and the establishment of another factory will worsen the situation,” leaders of the three groups said.
They said the noise and air pollution caused by the existing factories are a major health hazard to the residents. “We believe the government is not taking adequate steps to safeguard these areas, and the unchecked growth of the cement factories could have a devastating consequence for the region’s ecosystem,” the groups added.
In the letter the pressure groups also raised the issue of employment stating there has been little to no positive impact on local development or employment opportunities for the youth. The cement continues to operate with no accountability, they said.
Further, the groups said they object to the public hearing for the proposed new cement factory.
The public hearing by the board is scheduled to be held on October 18 for the proposal to set up a cement plant in the area by Meghatop Cement.
Earlier, the Hynñiewtrep National Youths Front, Hynñiewtrep Achik National Movement, Ri Jaiñtia Youth Federation and Hynñiewtrep National Youth Movement had also jointly written to the pollution control board against holding of the public hearing and establishment of the new cement plant.
