Withdrawal of closure notice on ferro alloy company opposed

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.

Advertisement

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.

advertisement

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.”

advertisement

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.

Hot this week

Pay hike of Assam ministers, MLAs likely as 3-member panel submits report

Full report likely by Oct 30 Guwahati Sept 25: There...

Meghalaya Biological Park Inaugurated After 25 Years: A New Chapter in Conservation and Education

Shillong, Nov 28: Though it took nearly 25 years...

ANSAM rejects Kuki’s separate administration demand, says bifurcation not acceptable

Guwahati, Sept 8: Rejecting the separate administration demand of...

Meghalaya man missing in Bangkok

Shillong, Jan 10: A 57-year-old Meghalaya resident, Mr. Treactchell...

Meghalaya’s historic fiber paves the way for eco-friendly products and sustainable livelihoods

By Roopak Goswami Shillong, Oct 25: From making earbuds to...

Meghalaya govt raises minimum wages of unskilled labourers to Rs 541

Shillong, July 24: The Meghalaya government has raised the...

Eight militants arrested in Manipur

Imphal, July 24: Security forces arrested eight militants belonging...

India, UK to unveil mega roadmap to boost ties, ink landmark FTA

London, July 24: The India-UK free trade agreement (FTA)...

Rupee rises 17 paise to 86.24 against US dollar in early trade

Mumbai, July 24: The rupee appreciated 17 paise to...

FTA, UK-India Vision 2035 mark step-change in bilateral ties: Foreign Secretary Lammy

London, July 24: Besides a "significant and comprehensive" Free...
spot_img

Related Articles

Popular Categories