Meghalaya CM to review coke plant applications amid environmental concerns
SHILLONG: Meghalaya chief minister Conrad Sangma said that he would personally scrutinize the applications of five coke plants recently granted Consent to Establish (CTE) by the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) and take necessary action if any norms are violated.
However, he cautioned against labelling coke plants or industries as ‘villains’, emphasizing Meghalaya’s need for economic growth, investments, and job creation.
The Meghalaya chief minister’s remarks came in response to a zero-hour notice raised by UDP MLA Nujorki Sungoh during the assembly session, expressing concern over the MSPCB's decision to grant fresh CTE to five coke plants in East Jaintia Hills district.
Sungoh highlighted the negative environmental impact of coke plants, referring to the region as the “cancer capital”.
In his response, Meghalaya CM Conrad Sangma assured that norms must be followed, and any violations would face necessary action according to the law.
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He pledged to personally review each application and convene a meeting with the MSPCB to address the matter.
However, CM Sangma stressed the importance of striking a balance between ecology and economy, acknowledging the need for livelihoods and economic growth while considering environmental concerns.
He cautioned against demonizing all industrial activities, noting that while there are concerns, not every plant or industry should be labelled as harmful.
The Meghalaya CM emphasized the need for a nuanced approach and highlighted various factors contributing to health issues in the state, cautioning against oversimplifying the situation.