Nongpoh, Dec 1: In a strong show of opposition against ongoing earth-mining activities in several areas of Raid Marwet, in Ri-Bhoi, the leaders of the All Raid Marwet People Federation (ARMPF) today submitted a formal complaint to Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal regarding what described as an illegal activty. .
The ARMPF had first lodged a complaint with the Range Officer of the Forest Department at 12th Mile, demanding immediate action to shut down all illegal earth-mining and halt environmental destruction in the area. However, the Forest Officer allegedly failed to take any steps to stop the activities detrimental to the environment.
Speaking to the media, the ARMPF leaders said that illegal earth mining and environmental degradation have become rampant in the Marwet region, severely affecting local water sources for drinking and domestic use. They added that the increasing number of illegal mining activities has caused significant hardship to the public, particularly with regard to accessing adequate and safe water.
Regarding their complaint submitted to the DC, the ARMPF said that the DC has assured them that he will take the matter seriously and act to put an end to illegal earth-mining and activities causing environmental damage in the area.
