Shillong: Residents from nine villages in the Nongtraw area of Ri-Bhoi district are demanding action over the pollution of the Umlew River. The community group, known as the Wah Umlew Protection Committee, alleges that soil and debris from a road construction project led by Dhar Construction Company have contaminated the water and harmed the local aquatic ecosystem.
The river serves as a vital resource for the surrounding villages, providing water for daily needs and supporting livelihoods. Pynskhemlang Sohtun, the committee secretary, noted that the group has long prioritized the river's health. After identifying the road connecting Nongkohlew to NEIGRIHMS as the source of the sediment, the committee submitted a formal request to the company on May 20 to address the runoff.
The committee claims that the company ignored their concerns and failed to implement necessary environmental safeguards. “As a result, large quantities of soil and debris have flowed into the river, causing the water to become visibly muddy and posing a threat to fish and other aquatic species inhabiting the river,” Sohtun said.
While the residents emphasize that they support regional development, they insist that construction must not come at the cost of the environment. The group is now calling on the state government to intervene and potentially pursue legal action against those responsible for the damage. They have warned that they may organize protests if immediate mitigation steps are not taken to restore the river.
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