Byrnihat, Meghalaya, January 24 (HBTV): Byrnihat, located along the Assam-Meghalaya border, has become one of the most polluted cities in India. Residents allege that the pollution in Byrnihat has worsened due to the presence of numerous factories. This has reportedly resulted in adverse effects on crops and food grains in the area.

According to sources, Byrnihat hosts factories belonging to 41 different companies.

Recent reports indicate a significant rise in the pollution level in Byrnihat, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) categorized as 'Hazardous.' The AQI reflects a major spike in pollution compared to the previous day, primarily due to elevated levels of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), likely caused by industrial emissions.

‘So much pollution, so much dust, is being disturbed by these factories. And if you look around, you can see there are no green trees around here,’ explained KJ Peter, principal of Don Bosco Higher Secondary School in Byrnihat.

‘There are no green plants, only brown leaves, and it is very sad that many people are affected by various diseases, including breathing problems and heart conditions. You can see that the rate of tuberculosis is increasing. It is really very painful to see. We would like the government and the authorities to take notice of this matter and address it so that people can live peaceful, healthy lives.’

Residents of Dehal Bagan village in the Byrnihat area say the problem is even more acute in their locality. Villagers have reportedly complained to the Meghalaya government several times, but no solution has been found.

The villagers have emphasized that they do not want the factories to shut down. However, they are demanding effective measures to control pollution in the area.