Meghalaya: Social Activist Urges Probe into Illegal Boulder Transport

SHILLONG: Social activist Cherian Momin on Saturday, December 28, demanded an independent investigation into the alleged illegal and exploitative practices surrounding the transportation of boulders from Bhutan to Bangladesh through the territory of Meghalaya. He said that the government should take action to halt illegal transportation activities and enforce legal compliance in stone export operations.

In a letter to Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, Momin stated, “It is imperative that the state government takes immediate and decisive action to halt these illegal operations, ensure adherence to the terms of the agreement, and protect the interests of the people and infrastructure of Meghalaya.”

However, it is critical to note that this agreement does not condone or facilitate the overloading of trucks, monopolistic practices by transport mafias, or any illegal activities by third parties. 

Requesting the government to take measures, the social activist said, “The operations of third-party trucks from India, which are currently transporting the stones, must be stopped immediately. Bhutanese authorities should be required to confirm the details of the trucks authorized to carry stones across Meghalaya.”

“All transportation activities must adhere to the legal framework governing transportation and trade in India, including permissible weight limits for vehicles and environmental protection norms,” he said. Momin also demanded that an independent investigation must be conducted to identify and hold accountable the individuals, groups, and associations involved in these illegal activities.

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