The Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board has been directed to conduct a comprehensive audit and inspection of all industrial units in Byrnihat and to submit a report in a week’s time.
Byrnihat that straddles the inter-state border, with part of it located in Meghalaya’s Ri-Bhoi district and part of it in Assam has been named the world’s most polluted ‘city’ by the Swiss air quality technology company.
The Assam Pollution Control Board has already initiated action and steps for audit and inspection of 39 industrial units. Similarly, Meghalaya will initiate stringent measures to monitor and review pollution in 41 industrial units on its side.
Forest & Environment Commissioner Secretary Pravin Bakshi said the audit and inspection will be carried out as per directive issued by Chief Minister Conrad Sangma during a recent meeting with officials of the department and the pollution board.
He said there are 20 “red category” industries in Byrnihat, Assam, compared to only five in Byrnihat, Meghalaya.
Earlier, the Chief Minister had already made a comprehensive statement in the Budget Session of the Assembly regarding negative global and national reports and urged coordinated action between Assam and Meghalaya.
He also sent a DO letter to Chief Minister of Assam for collaborative action as most of the polluting industries of red category are in Assam side of Byrnihat.
