Sand mining, waste disposal banned in Myntdu River

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaApril 5, 2025

West Jaintia Hills District Magistrate has promulgated an order under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), prohibiting all sand mining and stone quarrying along the Myntdu River and its riverbed.

The order, issued on April 1, also bans washing of clothes and vehicles, dumping of solid or liquid waste, construction debris, road construction muck, organic waste, diapers, and sanitary pads into the river.

The directive was issued following reports of deteriorating water quality in the Myntdu River and its tributaries, which have turned muddy over the past year due to erosion and debris deposits. With the onset of the monsoon, there is an increased risk of soil erosion and further contamination, potentially harming aquatic life and obstructing natural water flow.

Illegal mining activities along the riverbed have also contributed to pollution, severely affecting the water supply in Jowai and posing a threat to public health and the environment.