Staff Reporter
SHILLONG:
The High Court of Meghalaya has directed the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) and the State Pollution Control Board to inspect the entire surroundings of the Umiam Lake and, for a start, ensure that the activities undertaken by any person do not pollute the waters in any manner.
It was submitted on behalf of the respondents Philosopher Iawphniaw and Banalari Khongwar that the construction works undertaken in respect of Ever Banalari and Moon View Cafe were done after obtaining due permission and sanction as applicable.
Hearing a PIL on September 29, the division bench directed the respondents to file their affidavits appending copies of relevant documents indicating that due permission was obtained and all applicable rules were adhered to. Such affidavits should be filed by October 12, said the court.
It was further submitted on behalf of the respondents that Ever Banalari has been sealed and is not being used and that the construction at Moon View Cafe has not been completed for it to be used.
“The said respondents claimed that there are several other constructions or activities undertaken which grievously pollute the Umiam waters, including a resort by the name of Orchid run by the Meghalaya Tourism Development Corporation,” the court stated.
The matter will be taken up for hearing again on October 17.