Shillong, Oct 30: Tourism societies have demanded for immediate measures to check erosion and pollution of Umngot river – globally known for its pristine water – due to ongoing construction of Shillong-Dawki four-lane road.
During a meeting with Deputy Chief Minister in-charge PWD (Roads) Prestone Tynsong on Thursday, representatives of tourism societies urged him to constitute a fact-finding committee to probe and initiate direct measures to address issues of erosion and pollution of Umngot river.
The delegation comprising representatives of Darrang Tourism Promotion and Development Society, Shnongpdeng Tourism Development Society, and Dawki Tourism Development Society was led by Dalloi of Elaka Darrang, Pyrwa Lymba.
In a memorandum to the Deputy Chief Minister, the tourism societies highlighted severe impact of pollution on the river’s natural beauty and the livelihood of local residents, who solely depend on tourism.
The pollution has resulted in visible discoloration of the water, threatening the river’s reputation as one of Meghalaya’s most pristine tourist destinations, they said.
Seeking a thorough investigation on the matter, they said, “While we have some indications of the possible sources of this pollution, we trust in the wisdom as commitment of the Government to conduct a thorough investigation and take urgent remedial action.”
Besides, the delegation have sought relaxation in the daily road closure schedule in Laitlyngkot area.
As per the current schedule, the road closes for commuters from 11 am to 4 pm, causing inconvenience for tourists during winter season. The tourism societies have sought the closure period be changed to 12 noon to 4 pm in order to ease the flow of tourist traffic and sustain local tourism activities.
They said the deputy chief minister had assured them of looking into the matter and work towards finding a solution.
The meeting was also attended by former Amlarem MLA Stephanson Mukhim.
