Shillong, Oct 24:The subject of a road in need of repair from Wahkaji to Mawthabah via Nongtnger was brought up in the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) today, with concerns expressed that fixing it could also open up the way to dread uranium mining.
The KHADC has expressed willingness to issue a no-objection certificate (NOC) for repairing the road but is hesitant to hand over the road to another department due to concerns over uranium deposits in the area.
The road, which passes through 11 villages, is in a dilapidated condition, affecting the lives of locals. Langrin MDC Pius Marwein suggested handing over the road to the Public Works Department (PWD), citing a lack of council funds for repairs. However, Executive Member Pynkhrawboklin Kharjahrin emphasised that the road will remain with the council, though it is open to issuing an NOC for road repairs to be conducted by another party but will not transfer ownership of the road itself.
The current state of the road is poor, which is affecting the people living in 11 villages along its route.
A suggestion was made to visit the area, consider local suggestions and provide an NOC for repairs without handing over the land.
Kharjahrin stated, “We cannot deny that the road leads to places rich in uranium deposits. We will find ways to repair the road, but handing it over is not possible.”
Marwein countered that neglecting the road should not pave the way for uranium mining and the council should prioritise the people’s right to development.
