Chairman of the Meghalaya Health Advisory Board and Nongpoh MLA, Mayralborn Syiem, today expressed serious concern over the rising pollution levels in Byrnihat and the associated health risks to residents, calling for coordinated efforts between Meghalaya and Assam to identify and mitigate the sources of pollution in the border town.
Speaking to the media, Syiem acknowledged the recurring complaints from residents and environmental groups regarding pollution in the area, stressing that it remains a pressing issue requiring immediate attention. Byrnihat is an industrial centre with several polluting industries based there. It also experiences pollution through construction activities and because it is the gateway to Meghalaya, with road traffic in and out of the state concentrated on this area.
Byrnihat has been ranked as the most polluted city in the world. The Meghalaya government, however, has shifted the blame to Assam’s share of the town that straddles the border.
“The pollution is everywhere and it’s a huge concern,” said Syiem. “Both the Meghalaya and Assam governments are in constant touch to identify the source – whether it’s coming from factories within Meghalaya, Assam, or elsewhere. This requires a proper study and detailed survey.”
He reiterated the Meghalaya government’s firm stance on the issue, citing Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma’s assurance in the Assembly that the government would “leave no stone unturned” to address environmental concerns in the sensitive border zone.
Syiem, who is also a member of the Assembly’s Air Environment Committee, informed that he has been in contact with the committee’s Chairman. “In due course of time, we will engage with our counterparts in Assam to ensure clean air and environmental safety in Byrnihat and its adjoining areas,” he added.
