BARIDUA, OCT 13: The Federation of Khasi Jaiñtia and Garo People (FKJGP), Baridua Circle, on Tuesday shut down the Megha Food cattle feed manufacturing factory in Baridua, Ri-Bhoi district, following complaints from residents about a strong foul smell allegedly emanating from the facility.

The action was led by FKJGP Baridua Circle president Denis Nongrum, along with Allan D. Sohpdang and other members of the organisation.

According to the organisation, the shutdown followed repeated complaints from local residents who said the unpleasant smell had caused considerable inconvenience and affected their daily lives.

Speaking after the action, Nongrum said the organisation had received numerous complaints from residents of Baridua regarding the strong odour coming from the factory.

He also alleged that the factory was operating without the necessary documents, including a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the village authorities and other required permissions.

Baridua village headman Ioanis Narleng clarified that the factory had not yet obtained an NOC from the village.

Narleng said the village authorities had advised the factory owners to first ensure that their operations were conducted in a manner that controlled the foul smell. He added that the village could consider granting an NOC if the factory’s operations did not cause inconvenience to residents.

However, he said the factory’s operations had resulted in a strong smell, leading to dissatisfaction and opposition among local residents.

The action comes amid concerns raised by residents over the impact of the factory’s operations on their everyday lives.