Shillong, July 2: The Hynñiewtrep Integrated Territorial Organisation (HITO) has filed a formal complaint with the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB), alleging that R N B Cement Pvt. Ltd. at Umiam in Ri Bhoi district is causing air pollution and violating environmental regulations.
In a complaint addressed to the Member Secretary of the MSPCB, HITO alleged that the cement plant has been emitting large quantities of clinker dust and thick smoke into the surrounding environment. The organisation further claimed that, on several occasions, the emissions appeared to escape from areas other than the designated chimney or stack, resulting in the uncontrolled release of smoke and particulate matter into the atmosphere.
HITO said the alleged emissions have raised serious concerns among residents living near the factory, who fear adverse impacts on public health, agriculture, and the local environment. It stated that continuous exposure to clinker dust and smoke could worsen air quality and pose health risks, particularly to children, senior citizens, and people with respiratory illnesses.
The organisation has urged the MSPCB to carry out a detailed inspection of the factory to determine whether it is complying with the provisions of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, and other applicable environmental laws and consent conditions.
HITO also requested the Board to examine whether emissions are being released through unauthorised outlets instead of the approved chimney or pollution control system, assess the effectiveness of the plant’s pollution control equipment, and direct the company to take immediate corrective measures if any violations are detected. It further sought appropriate legal action against the company, if warranted.
Additionally, the organisation called for ambient air quality monitoring in villages surrounding the factory and urged the MSPCB to make the findings public in accordance with established procedures.
The complaint, signed by HITO President Donbok Dkhar and Legal Secretary Shaniah Nongrum, stated that while the organisation supports industrial development, it must be balanced with environmental protection and the health and well-being of local communities.
HITO has requested the Pollution Control Board to treat the matter as urgent, initiate an inquiry at the earliest, and keep the organisation informed of the action taken. The complaint was accompanied by videos purportedly showing the alleged emissions from the factory.
