Shillong, Nov 8: The Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) has slapped a fine of Rs 15 lakh on the NHIDCL, which is executing the JICA-funded Shillong-Dawki Road project, after construction debris and soil runoff were found polluting tributaries of the Umngot river in West Jaintia Hills district, officials said on Friday.

Once famed for its crystal-clear waters, the Umngot river, a major tourist attraction near Dawki, has recently turned muddy, prompting widespread concern among residents and environmental groups. Following complaints, MSPCB officials conducted an inspection last week and confirmed that waste material and soil from the road construction were being dumped into the river.

In a notice issued by MSPCB chairman R Nainamalai, NHIDCL’s General Manager (Projects) was

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