Shillong, July 3: Withdrawal of closure notice and reduction of fine imposed on a ferro alloy company in West Khasi Hills by Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) has led to resentment among the local Dorbar Shnong.
The Dorbar Shnong of Rwiang village has demanded that MSPCP takes it into consideration in taking any such decision, as it had been doing so, on matters related to Shri Shakambari Ferro Alloys Pvt Ltd located in the village.
A delegation of the Dorbar Shnong conveyed its demand to MSPCB during a meeting with the Board chairman.
The factory was closed three months ago for violating environmental norms, and the Dorbar Shnong had urged the Board to ensure compliance with all environmental norms before allowing the factory to reopen.
However, MSPCB’s decision to withdraw the closure notice without consulting the Dorbar Shnong has raised concern about the Board’s commitment to environmental protection, said Rwiang village Sordar, Wiljou Iawphnia.
According to Mosklandar Marngar, president of Meghalaya Commercial Truck Owners and Drivers Association (MCTODA), the Board had issued a closure notice on February 23, 2025, after the Dorbar Shnong had shut it down for violations of environmental norms.
In the meeting, the Board clarified that its decision to withdraw the closure notice was based on a report indicating the factory’s compliance with instructions to clean up fly ash from the river, he said.
However, the Dorbar Shnong claims that it has not seen any such action taken by the factory.
The delegation also questioned the Board’s decision to reduce the fine imposed on the factory from Rs 33.60 lakh to Rs 8.40 lakh, alleging that it undermines the importance of human life and environmental protection, according to Marngar.
He said the Dorbar Shnong is facing immense pressure to allow the factory to reopen.
However, he said, “Given that the Board involved us from the outset, it’s imperative that they continue to involve us in crucial decisions, such as withdrawing the closure notice.”
Meanwhile, MSPCB member secretary CH Chyrmang said both the decisions – withdrawal of closure notice and reduction of fine – had been taken in accordance with the law.
After conducting an inspection, the task force submitted a report indicating that the factory had complied with the Board’s directions, he said.
“As per the principle of natural justice, the Board could not continue to close the factory, and therefore, withdrew the closure notice,” he added.
Informing that the fine was imposed on the factory for polluting the river by dumping fly ash, he said the Board chairman reduced the fine to Rs 8 lakh following an application from the factory, as per guidelines issued by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and approved by the National Green Tribunal (NGT).
He added that the Board would continue to monitor the factory’s compliance with environmental regulations.
