Shillong: Shillong’s waterways are dying. The East Khasi Hills district administration is launching a cleanup of the Wahumkrah and Umkaliar rivers to stop chronic pollution and illegal building. Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Barnawal said, "The condition of the rivers was already a concern among people in the city."
Barnawal inspected the Umkaliar riverbanks alongside the Shillong operations team. He met with headmen and faith leaders to discuss the damage. Residents have complained for months about filth and encroaching structures. The administration is now vetting those complaints with the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board. Lawbreakers will face consequences.
The inspection uncovered homes along the Umkaliar lacking proper septic tanks. This creates a clear public health hazard. Officials issued notices to those specific households. More action is coming. Barnawal insists the government must protect river width while clearing out pollutants. The work requires a citywide effort. The district administration plans to bring all stakeholders together soon to finalize a formal cleanup strategy.
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