SWKH DC assures action, orders probe into charges
MAWKYRWAT, Oct 24: The ‘Ki Khun ki Hajar ka Hima Langrin’ and the Seng Samla Hima Langrin (SSHL) on Friday met South West Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner, AL Mawlong, demanding the immediate demolition of a coke factory at Rajaju village, alleging it was constructed illegally.
The protesters claimed that M/S HRT Coke Factory was built without the knowledge of the citizens or the consent of the general durbar of Hima Langrin.
Leaders Faindness Syiemiong and Johnteibor Sangriang accused the Syiem of Hima Langrin of high-handedness, alleging he granted permission for the project without conducting a public hearing.
The groups further stated that a recent inspection revealed the factory failed to comply with the Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, and the Air (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.
They requested the district administration to ensure public hearings are held for all industrial projects to allow the community to voice their concerns.
“We demand that the administration immediately demolish the factory to prevent the contamination of water bodies and the environment,” the leaders stated.
Following the meeting, the deputy commissioner reportedly promised to stop all ongoing construction work at the site and ordered an inquiry into the matter.