District Magistrate halts retaining wall construction at Nongmensong

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJanuary 30, 2025

The District Magistrate of East Khasi Hills, R.M. Kurbah, IAS, has issued an order prohibiting the construction of a retaining wall at Nongmensong, Dongkadiang, after it was found to have encroached into the river body.

According to the order issued under Section 163 BNSS, the construction involved dumping massive amounts of soil along the riverbank, reducing the river’s width and allowing water to enter the foundation area.

The site is also located in a flood-prone zone, raising concerns over environmental impact and potential violations under Section 24 of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974.

Considering the urgency, the order has been passed ex-parte and will remain in effect across the East Khasi Hills District until further notice.