SHILLONG : Meghalaya Cabinet Minister Sosthenes Sohtun on Wednesday said there is no official data to support claims that Byrnihat is the world’s most polluted town, although he acknowledged that pollution in the industrial hub remains a serious concern.
Speaking to reporters, Sohtun said the available data does not justify such a label but noted that pollution is expected in an industrial area like Byrnihat.
“As per the present data, it is not like that. But Byrnihat is an industrial area, so there will be pollution,” he said.
The minister said the Meghalaya government, through the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB), is continuously monitoring industries and ensuring that factories comply with environmental regulations. He warned that industries found violating pollution control norms would face strict action.
Sohtun also highlighted the unique challenge posed by Byrnihat’s location along the Meghalaya-Assam border, stating that industrial units operating on the Assam side also contribute to the area’s air quality.
“We have tried to coordinate with the Assam Pollution Control Board and the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) to reduce emissions. The Chief Minister has also taken up the issue with Assam because border areas require cooperation from both states,” he said.
The minister further revealed that the MSPCB is currently testing air-purifying machines that have shown encouraging initial results, with early reports indicating a reduction in pollution levels by 40 to 50 per cent.
“It is still under trial. If the results are good, I will request the Deputy Chief Minister in-charge of Urban Affairs to implement a pilot project,” Sohtun said.
Responding to concerns over the possible health impact of pollution, including diseases such as tuberculosis (TB) and cancer, Sohtun said no scientific conclusion has been reached so far.
“I cannot technically say people are getting TB or cancer due to pollution. We have written to the Health Department to conduct a study and submit a report on the affected areas,” he added.
The minister reiterated that tackling pollution in Byrnihat will require sustained cooperation between Meghalaya and Assam, along with strict enforcement of environmental norms and scientific assessment of its impact on public health.