Shillong: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has acknowledged the severity of air pollution in Byrnihat and assured that the government is actively addressing the issue. He clarified that the reported Air Quality Index (AQI) of 341, categorized as ‘very poor,’ was recorded by the Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring System (CAAQMS) located in Byrnihat, Assam, and not in Meghalaya.
Responding to a call attention motion by Jirang MLA Sosthenes Sohtun, Sangma highlighted that the Byrnihat industrial area in Assam has several red-category industries and that the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has identified it as a critically polluted area. “The Assam Pollution Control Board (PCBA) has already taken measures to address this,” the Chief Minister said.
However, he also mentioned that data collected by the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) from four monitoring stations in January 2025 showed that AQI levels in three locations in Meghalaya were ‘satisfactory,’ while only the Export Promotion Industrial Park (EPIP) in Byrnihat had a ‘moderate’ AQI reading.
Sohtun emphasized that Byrnihat has repeatedly ranked among the worst in air quality, making it hazardous for residents.
He pointed out that, apart from air pollution, noise pollution from industrial activities has also been a major issue. He noted that while some factories had been shut down for violating pollution control norms, foul odors continued to emanate from certain industrial units, causing distress to the public.
The MLA urged the government to take stern action against industries flouting environmental regulations and called for the mandatory installation of modern pollution control technology. He also suggested that factory premises be made eco-friendly by planting more trees and proposed the establishment of a permanent branch office of the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) at Byrnihat, with additional staff to strengthen monitoring and enforcement.
Responding to the concern, the Chief Minister informed the House that surprise inspections were conducted by the MSPCB in January and February 2025. Violations found included heavy emissions from chimneys, ineffective pollution control devices, and non-transmission of online emission data. As a result, closure notices were issued to seven industrial units, and environmental compensation was imposed on two units.
Recognizing that Byrnihat lies along the Meghalaya-Assam border, the Chief Minister emphasized the need for coordinated efforts between the two states. “To say that pollution is solely happening on one side of the border would not be fair. Both state governments and pollution control boards must work together,” he stated. He revealed that he had written to the Assam Chief Minister to ensure closer collaboration on tackling pollution in the area.
To further address the issue, the Chief Minister assured that the Meghalaya government had already sanctioned necessary posts for monitoring and enforcement. He issued a directive for the pollution board to conduct frequent surprise inspections and take immediate action against industries violating norms. “We have already set an example by shutting down seven industrial units. This process will continue, and whoever violates the rules will face strict action,” he asserted.
The Chief Minister also urged local communities to play an active role in minimizing pollution. While industries contribute significantly to air pollution, he pointed out that local activities could also have an impact. “As a government and pollution board, we are ready to partner with communities willing to take proactive steps in reducing pollution,” he said.
Also Read: March 5: The day the Indian Air Force bombed Mizoram