Rampant felling of trees in South West Khasi Hills for the production and supply of charcoal across the state is raising concerns for the health of the environment.
In the past, charcoal production was centred on West Khasi Hills but now this activity is being seen more and more often in South West Khasi Hills, such as Warsanlyngoh, Diwian and adjacent villages. Piles of charcoal can also be seen on the roadside along the route from Wahkaji to Nongriniang and nearby villages.
Many have raised concerns that if such activities continue unchecked, then the environment could suffer gravely. Whether charcoal production by small-scale producers is actually monitored by either the state government or district council appears doubtful.
