A formal letter has been sent to Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma by social activist Cherian Momin, urging the state government to initiate an independent investigation into the illegal transportation of boulders through the state. According to Momin, the boulders are being illegally transported from Bhutan to Bangladesh via Meghalaya, raising serious concerns about illegal trade practices and their negative impact on local infrastructure and law enforcement.
Concerns Over Illegal Practices in Boulder Trade
The letter, written by Momin, brings attention to a trilateral trade agreement between Bhutan, India, and Bangladesh that facilitates the legal transportation of boulders. However, Momin argues that the legal framework is being undermined by a series of illegal practices, including overloading of transport vehicles, the involvement of unauthorized transport syndicates, and extortion of money from truck drivers and transporters.
These illegal activities, Momin asserts, are not only compromising the integrity of the trade but also causing major damage to Meghalaya’s infrastructure. Roads and bridges are reportedly suffering due to the excessive weight of the overloaded trucks, which is raising alarms about long-term infrastructural wear and tear.
Momin’s letter emphasizes the urgent need for the Meghalaya government to take action and curb the illegal transportation activities. The social activist calls for a thorough investigation to ensure strict adherence to legal regulations in the stone export industry, particularly with regard to the transportation of boulders through the state.
Impact on Local Communities and Environment
The illegal transportation of boulders has several consequences for local communities and the environment in Meghalaya. The region, known for its picturesque landscapes and lush greenery, is also home to diverse ecosystems that are vulnerable to unchecked human activity. Momin’s letter highlights how the illegal transportation activities contribute to environmental degradation, including the destruction of forests and disruption of local wildlife habitats.
In addition, the overloading of trucks has been a major contributor to the deterioration of roads in Meghalaya. The state, known for its hilly terrain, relies heavily on its road network for transportation, and the damage caused by overloaded vehicles is exacerbating the already difficult conditions for commuters and residents.
Calls for Enforcement of Legal Compliance
The social activist has specifically called on the Meghalaya government to not only investigate the illegal practices but also to enforce strict legal compliance in the stone export industry. Momin urges the state police, along with other relevant authorities, to clamp down on unauthorized transport syndicates operating in the region, and to hold those responsible for extortion and illegal trade accountable.
Further, Momin suggests that the state government should work closely with the Bhutanese and Bangladeshi authorities to monitor and regulate the trade in a more transparent manner. This collaboration would ensure that the trilateral trade agreement is upheld and that the transportation of boulders occurs in compliance with the established legal framework.
Need for Immediate Action
The letter urges Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma to take immediate action and set up an independent investigation into the issue. Momin’s plea also seeks the establishment of a task force to address the various issues surrounding the transportation of boulders, including the examination of the routes used, the weighing of vehicles, and ensuring that permits are being obtained legally.
By addressing these concerns, Momin believes that the state can maintain its reputation as a peaceful, environmentally conscious region while also supporting legal trade activities that contribute to economic growth in the region.
The growing concerns over the illegal transportation of boulders from Bhutan to Bangladesh through Meghalaya have prompted social activist Cherian Momin to call for a thorough investigation and immediate action by the state government. The proposed investigation seeks to curtail illegal practices such as overloading, extortion, and damage to local infrastructure. As the issue gains attention, it remains crucial for the state authorities to uphold legal frameworks, ensuring that Meghalaya’s roads and natural resources are protected while fostering legal trade practices in the stone export industry.
