Meghalaya Environment Minister James Sangma to conduct inspection of Lukha river

After reports surfaced of Lukha river changing colour and turning deep blue raising health as well as environmental concerns in the area, Meghalaya Forest and Environment Minister James Sangma informed that he will go for an on-spot inspection of the polluted river in East Jaintia hills district later this month.

Expressing concern about the phenomenon, the Environment Minister said that the issue has been brought to his notice and he is yet to visit the river.

“I haven’t been there but I am looking forward to make a site visit and discuss with the officers on spot to see how we can address the issue and rejuvenate the river,” said Sangma.

He plans to address the issue together with officers, so that the river can be rejuvenated.

The water of river Lukha has been turning blue during the winters since 2007. But, this year, the water quality has apparently changed and turned deep blue.

The Lukha river had caught attention earlier this year after the river turned deep blue and the locals reported cases of fishes dying in the river. Some experts had even alleged that the phenomenon is caused by the chemicals released by the cement factories in the area, which had polluted the river.