Archive · 21 Nov 2025
Meghalaya Fines NHIDCL ₹15 Lakh for Polluting Umngot River
The Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board has fined a company ₹15 lakh for dumping dirt and waste into a river, making its water muddy.
The river is famous for being very clear.
The company must now tell the board how this happened, how they're fixing it, and how they'll stop it from happening again.
Environmental groups say the board should keep checking on the company to make sure they're doing the right thing.
Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) fined National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) ₹15 lakh
Fine due to mud and waste from Shillong–Dawki road project polluting Umngot River
Pollution caused by soil dumped into streams feeding the river
MSPCB ordered NHIDCL to submit report on pollution cause, fixes, and prevention measures
Environmental activists demand continuous inspections and proper waste disposal
- Who
- National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL)
- What
- Polluted Umngot River with mud and waste from Shillong–Dawki road project
- When
- Recently, with the pollution lasting for a few weeks
- Where
- Umngot River in West Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya
- Why
- To construct the Shillong–Dawki road, leading to improper waste handling
MSPCB's Stance
Environmental Activists' Stance
Pollution Cause
MSPCB's Stance
Soil from road project dumped into streams
Environmental Activists' Stance
Same as left view
Penalty
MSPCB's Stance
₹15 lakh fine
Environmental Activists' Stance
Fines alone are not enough
Future Measures
MSPCB's Stance
Ordered report on fixes and prevention
Environmental Activists' Stance
Continuous inspections and proper waste disposal systems
- River
- Umngot River
- Polluter
- National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL)
- Fine Amount
- ₹15 lakh
- Pollution Duration
- A few weeks
- Acts Violated
- Water Act (1974), Air Act (1981), Environment Protection Act (1986)