In a strong step toward safeguarding Shillong’s fragile river ecosystems, the District Magistrate of East Khasi Hills, Shillong, has invoked Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) to impose an immediate ban on the unauthorized discharge of untreated sewage and dumping of garbage in and around the rivers Umkhrah and Umshyrpi.
The move follows alarming findings from the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB), which revealed persistent pollution and no significant improvement in the water quality of both rivers, despite ongoing awareness and regulatory efforts.
Pollution Hotspots Identified:
The areas of concern include:
- Umshyrpi near Law College and Umshyrpi Bridge
- Umkhrah at Demthring, Umkaliar, Mawpdang Mawlai
- Umkhrah near Slaughterhouse (Mawlai Phudmuri)
The report shows high levels of Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) and Faecal Coliform, indicating severe contamination by organic waste and human sewage. These pollutants endanger aquatic ecosystems and pose direct health threats to nearby populations.
Legal Basis of the Order:
Section 163 of BNSS (Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023):
Empowers District Magistrates to issue orders in urgent situations to prevent danger to human life, health, or safety. This includes preventing pollution or unlawful disposal of waste that may cause public nuisance or harm.
Section 223 of BNS (Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023):
Penalizes disobedience of an order duly promulgated by a public servant, which can result in imprisonment up to 6 months and/or a fine, especially when such disobedience causes danger to human life, health, or safety.
Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974:
Prohibits the discharge of pollutants into water bodies without prior treatment and authorisation. Violation may attract penalties, including imprisonment and fines.
Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981:
Penalizes actions that lead to air pollution, including the burning of waste and release of harmful substances into the environment.
Order Summary:
The order prohibits:
- Discharge of untreated sewage from septic tanks, households, automobile workshops, and commercial establishments into streets or water bodies.
- Dumping of garbage directly into rivers or on public streets at the identified locations.
Any violation will invite legal prosecution under the above laws and will be dealt with strictly.
The order, signed by Smti. R.M. Kurbah, IAS, District Magistrate, East Khasi Hills, has been passed ex-parte and comes into force immediately from May 13, 2025.
This is not just an environmental concern but a public health emergency. Polluted rivers affect drinking water sources, agriculture, and local biodiversity. By enforcing this order, the administration aims to protect natural resources, prevent disease outbreaks, and uphold the citizens’ right to a clean and safe environment.
