Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Shillong: Health Minister Wailadmiki Shylla told Byrnihat residents to file formal written complaints about local pollution. He rejected the idea of acting on online rumors. The state government refuses to move on social media claims alone.
Byrnihat previously ranked among the most polluted industrial hubs in India. Shylla acknowledged the history. "I am not denying that. In the past, we have seen that it was one of the most polluted industrial areas," he said.
State officials have already shut down several factories. These units failed to meet air quality standards or follow pollution guidelines. The Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board now tracks air quality using remote sensors. Staff monitor industrial activity from their office and perform routine inspections before granting a Consent to Operate.
Public outcry currently centers on alleged respiratory illnesses linked to the heavy industrial activity. The government launched an official inquiry to investigate these health concerns. Officials are waiting for the final report to dictate their next steps. Shylla insisted that the investigation must run its course before the state intervenes again.
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