The Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) has taken strong action against a road construction agency working on the Japan-funded Shillong–Dawki highway for allegedly dumping construction waste into the Umngot River — a water body famous for its crystal-clear waters and global tourism appeal. The action comes after videos and complaints from locals showed the river turning muddy due to soil and debris being pushed down from excavation sites. The Umngot River, located in Dawki on the India–Bangladesh border, is known for its transparent water where boats appear to float on air. Residents fear the pollution will damage its fragile ecosystem and hurt tourism, the main source of livelihood for many families in the area. Local MLA Ricky Syngkon has raised the issue with the Union Ministries of Road Transport and Environment, seeking immediate intervention to protect one of India’s cleanest rivers.
Following an inspection, the MSPCB issued strict directions to the project management unit, Mylliem, to immediately halt dumping activities. Violations were recorded under Section 5 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, and the agency has been instructed to follow environmental safety norms laid down by the Board. MSPCB Chairman M.R. Narmaia stated that the inspection team found uncontrolled waste disposal, erosion, and loose debris sliding into the water. The Board also noted the absence of protective barriers such as sandbags, which are required to stop soil from flowing into the river during rainfall.
Officials said the executing agency — the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) — has been directed to submit a corrective plan within 15 days, including detailed topography analysis, slope protection measures, and steps to stabilise excavation zones. The Shillong–Dawki project, launched in December 2021, has previously faced scrutiny for inadequate environmental safeguards and haphazard earth-cutting. With the river’s global reputation at stake, authorities warned of legal action if the agency fails to comply.