Majority endorse Topcem mining plan, KSU stands alone

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaSeptember 5, 2025

The Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) on September 5 conducted a public hearing on the proposed Mooiong Thlusniang Limestone Mine by M/s Meghalaya Cements Limited (Topcem Cement) at Chiehruphi village, East Jaintia Hills.

The project spans 26.50 hectares, for which the company has sought prior Environmental Clearance from the State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) under the EIA Notification, 2006, and its subsequent amendments.

The hearing, held at the project site and chaired by Additional Deputy Commissioner J.U. Kharpuri in the presence of MSPCB officials and district officers, saw active participation from residents, village leaders, and stakeholders. A total of 12 speakers presented their views, with an overwhelming majority extending full support to the mining proposal.

Community leaders, including Dolloi of Narpuh Elaka, Manbha Kyndoh, and headmen from Chiehruphi, Thangskai, and Wahiajer villages, highlighted that the project would bring socio-economic benefits such as employment opportunities, community development initiatives, and infrastructure support.

The Elaka Narpuh Secretary, Sibren Sumer, noted that unlike other regions, Narpuh possesses valuable mineral resources, which he described as a “blessing” for local livelihoods. He informed that Topcem currently provides around 18 jobs annually to youth from the surrounding villages and urged the government to expedite the clearance process.

However, the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU), East Jaintia Hills District, stood firm in opposition. Its General Secretary, Kwilniss S Suchiang, argued that the fragile environment of Narpuh has already been overburdened by mining and industrial activity. He warned that turning land into a mere “business commodity” could jeopardize the future of the community, stressing the need to protect natural resources for the next generation.

At the conclusion of the hearing, MSPCB officials said the proceedings, along with 840 written submissions from individuals and civil society groups, will be forwarded to the SEIAA in Shillong for further examination and decision-making.