Meghalaya's Clear River Turns Cloudy, Tourism Fears Rise

Meghalaya's tourism sector has experienced a remarkable surge, with domestic and international tourist numbers reaching 1.8 million in 2024, marking a 700% increase. This rise in popularity has brought newfound attention to the state's natural beauty, particularly the Umngot River, once celebrated as one of Asia's clearest. However, this newfound fame is shadowed by a growing concern as the river's waters have recently turned cloudy, sparking alarm among locals and travelers alike.

The discolored waters of the Umngot River have led to a significant economic downturn for communities in Dawki, Shnongpdeng, and Darrang, where tourism is the primary source of income. Businesses have reported an 80% drop in activity as tourists, drawn by images of glass-like waters, are canceling bookings. Locals attribute the pollution primarily to ongoing construction on the Shillong-Dawki Road project, citing heavy soil dumping and hill cutting as direct causes for the silt entering the river.

In response, the Meghalaya Pollution Control Board has imposed penalties on NHIDCL for environmental violations. However, residents are calling for a comprehensive, coordinated action plan. This includes intensified monitoring of construction activities, thorough investigation of all river tributaries, and stringent regulation of soil disposal. Immediate and effective measures are crucial to prevent irreversible damage to the Umngot River's reputation and to safeguard the livelihoods that have flourished around its natural splendor.