Meghalaya: Shillong-Dawki Road construction turns Umngot River polluted, NHIDCL fined

Guwahati: The Umngot River, once known for its crystal-clear waters and considered Asia’s cleanest, is facing serious environmental stress due to ongoing construction along the JICA-funded Shillong-Dawki Road.

The 90-km project, executed by the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), has led to widespread dumping of excavated soil and construction debris into the river and its tributaries, turning the waters muddy and threatening the livelihoods of local communities that depend on tourism.

An inspection by the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) on November 3 found multiple violations of environmental norms along the project corridor.

The four-member team, which included senior MSPCB officials and the Assistant Commissioner of East Khasi Hills, observed extensive excavation and disposal of earth without proper containment or stabilization.

Unregulated sand washing and mechanical operations near streams were increasing muddiness in the Umngot and Mynsong rivers.

Two mobile crushers were also found operating without consent, worsening soil erosion and sediment runoff.

Following the inspection, MSPCB imposed a fine of Rs 15 lakh on NHIDCL, directing the company to pay within 15 days as environmental compensation.

The board also required a detailed report on the causes of pollution, corrective measures taken, and steps to prevent further contamination, warning that failure to comply could lead to additional penalties or suspension of project activities.

Local stakeholders have expressed strong concern over the damage. Alan West Kharkongor, President of the Meghalaya Rural Tourism Forum, stressed that development must not come at the cost of the environment.

He noted that the Prime Minister had once referred to the Umngot River as a national pride and called for day-to-day monitoring, regular reporting, and strict enforcement of environmental safeguards.

The Tourism Society of Darrang Elaka also raised complaints that NHIDCL had ignored repeated warnings from local communities.

Environmentalists and residents have warned that if unregulated construction and debris disposal continue, the Umngot River could suffer permanent ecological damage, affecting both its scenic value and the tourism-dependent economy.

The MSPCB has pledged to continue monitoring and enforcing rules to prevent further damage, stressing that development and conservation must go together.