Ganol River under threat in Meghalaya

Shillong | July 7 : Ganol River, one of the main sources of drinking water in Tura town of Meghalaya is under threat with pollution and due to this condition there have been outbreaks of minor water borne diseases affecting the people. The onset of monsoon is making the situation worse. Damalgre village, about 20 km from Tura town depends on the river for water. Villagers say that some 10-15 years ago, the river water was used for drinking but they have abandoned it as it is no longer fit for human consumption.
Ganol riversides are popular picnic spots with places like Chibagre (confluence) and Pelga falls. There was unabated washing of vehicles at certain places along the river until about three years ago. But measures taken by the village head (nokma) have put a check on this, however, not completely.
Pollution with solid and liquid waste directly being dumped into the river has made its water undrinkable, in spite of awareness campaigns being taken out by NGOs and students' bodies. There is also no proper drainage system in the town, contributing to the problem.
Rongram, about 15 km from Tura town, where weekly markets are held, is considered to be the main agent that pollutes the river. Poor sanitation and unhygienic way of life by the people add to the problem. The Municipal Board in order to create awareness, comes up with publicity campaigns on occasion, warning the public against violating rules.
It remains to be seen what measures need to be taken for the public to wake up to the gravity of the situation. With less rains during the monsoon season in the past years, it is important that the government and non-government agencies and the public come together to help alleviate the growing water crisis by preserving sources of drinking water.