HITO demands MSPCB to shut down all illegal coke factories within 15 days

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJuly 26, 2021

The Hynniewtrep Integrated Territorial Organization (HITO) on Monday served a 15-day deadline to the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) to close down all illegal coke factories in East Jaintia Hills district.

“If the MSPCB fails to comply with the demand, we will be compelled to close down the board’s office at Motinagar,” HITO general secretary Wanbun Dkhar told reporters after meeting with the secretary of the board.

He said the organization had sought clarification as to why such illegal coke factories are still allowed to function despite a notification issued by the East Jaintia Hills deputy commissioner to close down all those who have not obtained the consent to operate (CTO).

Wanbun informed that the secretary of the MSPCB told the delegation that the board is in process to identify all illegal factories and assured that necessary action will accordingly be taken.

According to him, almost all the illegal coke factories are located under the Elaka Sutnga.

He also alleged that these illegal coke factories are also owned and operated by the same individuals from Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh after the state government dismantles their illegal factories that are operating without necessary permission.

On the other hand, HITO president Donbok Dkhar said the organization will have no other option but to take things into its own hand if no action is being taken on the matter.

Donbok also demanded the state government to do away with the single window agency and constitute a different committee to examine all aspects before allowing any companies to set up factories in the state.