SHILLONG, Feb 2, 2026: Byrnihat pollution has emerged as a major concern, with Cabinet Minister and Jirang MLA Sosthenes Sohtun stating that industries from both Meghalaya and Assam contribute to the high pollution levels. He stressed that the Meghalaya side alone cannot be held responsible for the environmental challenges in the industrial area.
The minister noted that industrial units on both sides of the Assam-Meghalaya border are a significant source of air and water pollution. “Efforts are ongoing to reduce emissions, but some units continue to violate environmental standards,” Sohtun said.
He highlighted that the Meghalaya government is actively monitoring pollution and has urged the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and the Assam Pollution Control Board to enforce regulations against violators. Sohtun added that coordinated action between states is critical to protect residents and the local ecosystem.
Regarding real-time pollution monitoring, the minister explained that the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) has been tracking emissions regularly. However, he acknowledged that some industries continue to operate outside the legal norms, which makes monitoring more challenging.
Byrnihat, an industrial hub straddling the Assam-Meghalaya border, has been ranked among the most polluted areas in India and worldwide, according to studies by IQAir and the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA). In response, MSPCB has conducted surprise inspections and environmental audits in the region.
Officials have recommended ongoing audits, real-time emission tracking, and stronger inter-state coordination to achieve lasting improvements in air quality. Sohtun emphasized that tackling Byrnihat pollution requires continuous attention, enforcement, and cooperation to safeguard public health, farmland, and the local environment.
