The Delhi-based Trinity Impex International (TII), an expert consultant entrusted with the rejuvenation of Lukha river in East Jaiñtia Hills district has begin its rejuvenation programme from Kyrhuh Khla near Ladrymbai by pass.
Scientists from the TII has begun its works three months back and would soon start its project at Lukha, where it has been entrusted to treat the water through use of micro-green algae.
TII Deputy General Manager, Dilip Kumar informed that the project at Kyrhuh Khla is on track even though it was delayed for eight months due to the Covid pandemic. Thereafter, the team will begin their work at Lukha.
In February 2019, the public water supply schemes in East Jaiñtia Hills were tested for acid content. Of the 37 schemes operating under the state’s public health engineering department, 26 were found to be too acidic for human consumption.
“The water at Kyrhuh Khla is not fit for human consumption and people have been using it for agricultural purposes, cleaning and to feed livestock. However, we hoped that with our pilot project the water can be rejuvenated,” Kumar said.
It may be mentioned that algae treatment was contemplated by the State government to improve the water quality in East Jaiñtia Hills afflicted by acid mine drainage.
The NGT had also viewed that if treatment is successful, it will help neutralise the acid mine drainage in rivers and streams in the areas affected by coal mining in Meghalaya.
At Lukha River, the State government has earmarked Rs 2.5 crore for its rejuvenation to be executed by the TII. It is believed that algae solution is the only way to treat the acidic water and restore aquatic life in the river.
