The Ri-Bhoi Deputy Commissioner has directed coal depot owners to apply for consent to operate from the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board within two weeks.
The DC reminded depot owners through a notification that the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1974 restricts the establishment of any industry or operation likely to discharge sewage into a stream, well, sewer or land. The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1981, meanwhile, restricts the establishment of any industry or operation of any industrial plant in an air pollution control area without the prior consent of the MSPCB.
Therefore, all owners of coal depots in the district are required to apply for consent from the MSPCB within two weeks from the date of this notification, failing which action will be taken as per the law.
Details for obtaining consent may be sought from the MSPCB office in Lumpyngngad, Shillong, on any working day during office hours or online at megocmms.nic.in.