Pollution Board Clears Byrnihat Ethanol Plant After Inspection

Shillong: The Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board cleared an ethanol plant of pollution claims on June 30. Inspectors visited the M/s Umiam Distillation Pvt. Ltd. site in Byrnihat after social media users flagged the factory. The board acted on its own without waiting for a formal complaint.

The task force measured particulate matter and stack velocity on June 29. They found emissions well under the allowed limits. The plant used an Electrostatic Precipitator and a Zero Liquid Discharge system to manage waste. Officials confirmed these systems worked as intended. Treated water circulates back into the cooling towers.

Byrnihat faces heavy scrutiny. An IQAir report recently named the town the world's most polluted metropolitan area. The board maintains strict oversight as part of the National Clean Air Programme. They have already shut down several red-category businesses in the last two years.

The board stated: "The MSPCB said it remains sensitive to public health concerns and will continue regular monitoring and strict enforcement in Byrnihat to ensure compliance with environmental norms." Officials remain on high alert.