The process for setting up of an LPG bottling plant in Umiam, Ri-Bhoi district has started with Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) setting June 25 as the last date for submission of tenders for the project and June 27 as the date for opening of tenders.
IOCL informed this during the hearing of a public interest litigation (PIL) in the Meghalaya High Court today.
The tender process for land development and construction of the boundary wall had started in April and applications had been made to the appropriate authorities, including the District Forest Officer and the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board for the necessary permissions.
During today’s hearing, the State government informed the High Court that the Forest Department has duly granted the permission for the LPG bottling plant.
The State government however quite rightly suggested that since the project is at the nascent stage and the construction will begin after the tender process is complete, IOCL should set up a plant or facility within the unit to deal with the garbage that may be produced in the usual course.
The State government also said that due care and caution should be taken by IOCL in dealing with the earth that is dug up at the time of construction of the unit.
“There is no doubt that the State Pollution Control Board and other appropriate authorities would remind IOCL of the guidelines that need to be followed in dealing with the earth that may be dug up for the purpose of the construction,” the High Court said.
The court also expressed hope that the no-objection certificate sought by IOCL from the Ri-Bhoi district administration would be dealt with in accordance with law as expeditiously as possible.
While asking IOCL to ensure that the construction work is done by respecting the surroundings and the environment, the High Court said that since the present matter has served its purpose, the PIL on this matter has been closed.
