Shillong: The Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) has directed the Project Management Unit-Mylliem, responsible for the Shillong–Dawki road project, to immediately remove construction and demolition waste that has been dumped into the Umngot River, a river renowned for its crystal-clear waters. The directive comes after an inspection revealed extensive debris from ongoing road construction activities near the river, posing serious environmental hazards.

Locals in Dawki, West Jaiñtia Hills district, expressed concern that the once-pristine Umngot River, famous for its glassy surface that perfectly reflects boats and surrounding scenery, has remained murky and silt-laden in recent weeks. Residents noted that the river’s water, which has long been a source of local tourism and pride, has been affected by construction-related sedimentation.

Inspection Findings and Immediate Orders

On Friday, MSPCB chairman R. Nanamalai invoked powers under Section 5 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, issuing a strict order to remove all debris from the river. The board emphasized that the Project Management Unit-Mylliem must comply with the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) notified on March 17, 2025. The order mandates immediate removal of construction waste, stabilization of slopes, and measures to prevent further soil erosion and sedimentation into the river.

The inspection conducted by MSPCB revealed that debris from extensive earthwork and excavation along the under-construction Shillong–Dawki road had been dumped near the river without containment or stabilization structures. Officials highlighted that the loose soil and rubble, deposited near the Pynursla-Dawki Bridge, are highly unstable and likely to slide into the river during rainfall.

“The filled portion near the bridge appears unstable and has the potential to cause additional landslides, especially during rainfall,” the MSPCB warned.

Similar observations were made at the new Dawki Bridge construction site, where hill cutting and earth excavation had left loose soil prone to sliding into the river, further contributing to siltation.

Environmental Concerns

The MSPCB has raised alarms over the potential ecological impact of this unchecked waste disposal. The Umngot River is not only a tourist attraction but also supports local biodiversity and serves as a vital water resource for communities along its banks. The board has collected water samples for laboratory analysis to assess the extent of contamination and determine any long-term environmental damage.

Officials noted that lack of retaining structures, such as sandbags or protective barriers, during recent filling works by the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) had exacerbated the problem. Loose soil and debris from these operations are now being carried into the river, raising concerns about increased erosion, sedimentation, and potential landslides along the riverbanks.

Regulatory Compliance and Contractor Obligations

The MSPCB has also directed all contractors working on the road project to apply for Consent to Establish and Consent to Operate within 15 days, ensuring that future operations are compliant with environmental regulations. Additionally, the board has reminded the project authorities to adhere strictly to the Meghalaya Stone Crusher Order of December 23, 2021, which governs the legal sourcing and handling of boulders and other construction materials.

The Project Management Unit-Mylliem has been ordered to submit a detailed action-taken report at the earliest, outlining the steps taken to remove the debris, stabilize slopes, and prevent further damage to the river. Failure to comply with the MSPCB directive may lead to legal action under environmental laws.

Local Concerns and Call for Action

Residents and environmental activists have repeatedly raised concerns about the impact of large-scale infrastructure projects on the Umngot River. The river, which flows through Dawki town in West Jaiñtia Hills, is an important tourism and ecological landmark, attracting visitors for its clear waters and picturesque scenery. The recent murkiness of the river has alarmed locals, who fear that ongoing construction activities could irreversibly harm its natural beauty and ecological balance.

Locals emphasized that the river’s glassy waters, which reflect boats and surrounding greenery, are a vital part of the town’s cultural and economic life. The persistent murkiness observed in recent weeks highlights the urgent need for strict enforcement of environmental safeguards along the construction corridor.

Next Steps

MSPCB officials have made it clear that strict compliance with SOPs and environmental regulations is mandatory for all ongoing construction projects near rivers and ecologically sensitive areas. The immediate removal of construction debris, stabilization of embankments, and monitoring of water quality are seen as crucial steps to restore the Umngot River’s ecological health.

The directive also serves as a warning to other infrastructure projects in Meghalaya, emphasizing the importance of environmental responsibility, proper waste management, and preventive measures to protect the state’s natural resources. The board will closely monitor the Project Management Unit-Mylliem’s response and ensure that corrective actions are promptly implemented.

The Umngot River, with its tourism significance and ecological value, has long been a jewel of Meghalaya. The MSPCB’s swift action seeks to safeguard the river from further degradation, ensuring that it continues to remain a source of pride, livelihood, and natural beauty for the local communities and visitors alike.