KSU demands inquiry into safety of Kynshi river following increased cancer cases in Ranikor

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJanuary 18, 2024

The Ranikor Circle of the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) has demanded investigation into the changing of the colours of the Kynshi River in South West Khasi Hills – which has become a common phenomenon over the past few years – killing thousands of fish and aquatic lives.

Addressing the media on Wednesday, president of the KSU Ranikor Circle Marcony Thongni alleged this phenomenon – where the colour of the Kynshi river changes and the death of thousands of fishes – has started soon after the uranium drilling activities carried out by the Maheshwari company in the year 2010.

He said the drilling activities was carried out along the riverside.

“Therefore, we demand the government to set up an investigation into the matter,” Thongni said.

He also alleged following the incident of the Kynshi River turning green in colour, cancer cases among the people of Ranikor village have reportedly increased over the years.

“Hence, testing the waters of the river is necessary to find out whether it is safe for drinking and domestic purposes or not,” Thongni said.

Further, Thongni said that earlier, the state government had directed the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) to investigate into the matter but till date the board has failed to make public its finding.

Meanwhile, the KSU Ranikor Circle also urged the state government to sanction funds for repairing the road from Mawsynram-Laitmynsaw East Khasi Hills up to Ranikor South West Khasi Hills.