Shillong: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma on Wednesday clarified concerns over a media report describing “very poor” air quality in Byrnihat, stating that the data referenced in the report was collected from monitoring stations located in Byrnihat, Assam, and not Meghalaya.
Speaking during the Budget Session 2025, Sangma pointed out that the data cited in the report originated from the Central Academy for State Forest Service in Assam.
He explained that Byrnihat in Assam hosts several red-category industries and has been designated as a critically polluted area by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Assam, under the directives of the National Green Tribunal (NGT), has formulated an action plan and is implementing measures to control pollution in the area.
In contrast, Sangma highlighted data from four monitoring stations of the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) for January 2025, which indicated that Byrnihat in Meghalaya recorded air quality levels that were “satisfactory” and “moderate,” with the latter classification limited to the export promotion hub.
Sangma stressed the importance of collaboration between Meghalaya and Assam in addressing air pollution but also emphasised the need for strict enforcement within Meghalaya itself.
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He disclosed that seven industrial units in the state had been shut down for flouting pollution norms and stated that the MSPCB has been directed to conduct surprise inspections of industrial units, with firm action to be taken against violators.
The chief minister announced plans to write to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to strengthen cooperation between the two states and their respective pollution control boards.
However, he asserted that Meghalaya must first ensure strict compliance with environmental regulations within its own jurisdiction before seeking collaboration.
Sangma also urged local communities to join hands with the government in addressing pollution and minimising its various forms.
