Meghalaya: Villagers fear water source contamination over Umiam highway construction

Shillong: The proposed 4-lane highway from Umiam to Malidor in Meghalaya has sparked widespread criticism from residents of Umroi Madan village, who fear the project will contaminate their water sources

The village leaders are divided, with some supporting the project while others vehemently opposing it.

Concerns have been raised about the potential impact on the village's water sources, situated near the proposed highway alignment.

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Locals claimed that newly constructed houses along the route were built solely to claim compensation.

The proximity of these houses to the water sources raises concerns about contamination and destruction of the water supply.

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They also alleged that senior government officials and wealthy individuals with ties to the government would benefit from the new alignment, which passes through their private properties.

Many affluent individuals have purchased land along the proposed route, fueling suspicions of vested interests, they claimed.

They also added that excavation for the highway could lead to soil erosion and land subsidence, causing significant losses for farmers and homeowners.