Meghalaya: MSPCB fines NHIDCL Rs 15 lakh for polluting Umngot River
Guwahati: The Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) has fined the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) Rs 15 lakh for polluting tributaries of the Umngot River in West Jaintia Hills with debris and soil from the Shillong–Dawki Road project.
The Umngot River, once famous for its clear waters and a popular tourist spot near Dawki, has recently turned muddy, raising concern among locals and environmental groups.
An inspection by the MSPCB last week found that waste from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)-funded project was being dumped into the river.
Following this, MSPCB Chairman R. Nainamalai issued a notice to NHIDCL’s General Manager (Projects) to pay Rs 15 lakh as environmental compensation for violations at four specific sites.
Officials said the company has been given 15 days to pay the amount through a demand draft or banker’s cheque to the Member Secretary of the MSPCB, Shillong.
The notice mentions violations under Section 33A of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, Section 31A of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. NHIDCL has also been instructed to submit a detailed report explaining the cause of the pollution, corrective actions taken, and plans to prevent future contamination.
Officials warned that failure to comply could result in further penalties or even suspension of the project.
A senior official said that the pollution has already caused serious damage to the water quality and aquatic life.
The Shillong–Dawki road, which connects to the India–Bangladesh border, has faced frequent criticism from residents over careless dumping and siltation. Environmentalists welcomed the fine but urged for stricter monitoring. “Penalties are not enough.
Regular inspections and proper waste disposal systems must be implemented,” said an environmental activist from Amlarem.
The MSPCB confirmed that it will continue to monitor the project and take necessary action if more violations occur.