The Dorbar Shnong of Mawpun Kshaid, led by headman Bandari Ryntathiang and secretary Synrap Nongrum met with the Deputy Commissioner of Ri-Bhoi, Abhilash Baranwal, to voice concerns regarding the potential impact of the proposed four-lane road from Umiam to Malidor via the Shillong Bypass on the village’s water sources.
While the Dorbar Shnong acknowledged the infrastructural benefits the high-speed corridor project promises, it is worried that the vital water sources will face detriment. The council expressed support for development but not at the expense of the environment.
Speaking to reporters, Ryntathiang urged the DC to ensure that the water sources will not be jeopardised by the construction of the road. In response, Baranwal assured that the project would not affect the water sources and, if any adverse impacts were detected, the work would be halted immediately.
The Dorbar Shnong also submitted a memorandum to the DC, signed by the majority of the village’s residents, calling for the identification of potential risks to the water sources and the formulation of strategies to mitigate any possible harm.
