The district administration in East Khasi Hills has imposed a strict ban on dumping of waste and construction debris along a key highway stretch leading into Shillong, following concerns raised by a national road agency over safety and maintenance issues.The order was issued by District Magistrate RM Kurbah, prohibiting the disposal of soil, debris, and garbage along a 16-kilometre stretch of the Old National Highway 40. This road is an important link connecting Shillong with other parts of the country. The move came after the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited raised the issue in a formal complaint earlier this month. The agency reported that unknown individuals had been regularly dumping waste along the roadside between Barapani and KHADC Junction, affecting a stretch that remains under state maintenance.
Officials said the dumping was not just creating an unpleasant sight but was also disrupting repair work and posing risks to vehicles. The stretch is particularly sensitive as it marks the transition point where the four-lane Jorabat–Barapani road ends and traffic moves into a narrower two-lane section towards Shillong.Invoking powers under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, the administration has banned three main activities: dumping of construction material or debris along the road, disposal of household or commercial waste in the area, and any act that obstructs road maintenance or traffic movement. Authorities have warned that violators will face legal action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The order has been enforced with immediate effect and will continue until further notice.
Officials said this is the second such action in recent weeks. Earlier, the district administration had taken steps to curb illegal dumping and excavation across the district after complaints of soil and waste entering rivers during rainfall.