In a significant anti-pollution protest, residents of Lower Balian in the Byrnihat area of Meghalaya took a stand against an industrial unit, accused of illegal operations exacerbating local pollution levels.
Byrnihat, recently identified as India’s most polluted town, faces critical air quality issues with PM2.5 levels exceeding limits due to industrial emissions. A ferro alloy company has come under fire from villagers for allegedly operating without valid documents, increasing air pollution and causing health concerns.
The villagers, including diverse community members, demanded official documentation and protested until proper clearances were presented. State officials are coordinating efforts with Assam to address cross-border pollution affecting the region.