CM to write to Assam counterpart
Shillong, Mar 6: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Wednesday came down heavily on industries violating air pollution control rules within the state while also stressing the need for both Meghalaya and Assam to address the issue.
Sangma, in his reply to a call attention moved by Jirang MLA on a CPCB data which revealed the poor air quality in Byrnihat, emphasized the need to take stern action against industries within the state violating pollution rules.
“I am sending a strong and firm message to all industrial units that the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) will be conducting surprise checkings. I have given a standing order to the MSPCB to conduct surprise checks and take action,” Sangma said.
The chief minister also informed that as many as seven industrial units have been closed down for flaunting the norms leading to air pollution.
“Surprise checks will continue and the government will take firm action against any industrial unit found flouting the rules,” Sangma warned.
Further, the chief minister informed that he would be writing to the Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on the need for the two states to address the issue of air pollution.
“The two states and two pollution control boards must work together and we have taken steps towards that,” he said.
“However, before we approach the Assam government, we have to take strict action against our own industrial units that are violating the laid-down rules,” Sangma added.
The chief minister also sought help from the local community to partner with the government to minimize the different aspects of pollution.
