Shillong, Feb 19: Public Health Engineering Minister Marcuise N Marak told the Assembly on Thursday that the government plans to set up sand quality testing labs for water projects in Shillong, Tura, and Jowai.
The clarification came after TMC legislator Rupa M Marak flagged random sand extraction from rivers, expressing safety concerns following a personal tragedy.
“I fear it may not be safe. I have lost my mother in 2024 as a water tank collapsed on her,” he said, asking whether mandatory regulation existed.
The minister confirmed testing is conducted even for small water-tank projects while also informing that the testings are currently outsourced to NIT.
“Contractors awarded turnkey projects are required to send sand testing to NIT. They carry out work as per contract and in line with IS specifications,” Marcuise Marak said.
He assured that action will be taken if contractors violate the contract.
“Definitely, on receipt of any complaint we will take action.”
VPP MLA Brightstarwell Marbaniang raised a separate issue of leakage at a dam in Lum Shyllong–Shiliang-Um that was built only a year ago.
In response, the minister said third-party certification is mandatory before payment under the JJM.
“I would urge members if you find any irregularities, make it a point to inform so that necessary inquiry and action can be taken.”
