Shillong, June 30: Taking note of reports circulating on social media regarding pollution from an ethanol and distillery unit at the Export Promotion Industrial Park (EPIP), Byrnihat, the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) deputed its Task Force for a ground inspection of the unit on 29 June 2026. The Board acted suo motu, without awaiting a formal complaint, in view of the public concern expressed.
The Task Force visited M/s Umiam Distillation Pvt. Ltd. at about 11:30 a.m. and carried out source-emission monitoring of the unit. Particulate Matter (PM) was the principal parameter measured, alongside stack velocity, differential pressure and temperature.
The Particulate Matter concentration at the unit was found to be within the prescribed limits. At M/s Umiam Distillation, the pollution-control devices, an Electrostatic Precipitator on the captive power plant and a Multi-Effect Evaporator with a Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) system on the distillation unit were found operational.
The 580 KLD ZLD plant was in working condition, with treated water being reused in the cooling tower. Water samples of both raw and treated effluent were collected and have been sent for analysis.
Byrnihat, a notified non-attainment town under the National Clean Air Programme, remains under the Board’s continuous watch. Over the past two years the Board has ordered the closure of multiple non-compliant red-category units and strengthened ambient monitoring in the area.
The Board is mindful of the health concerns expressed by residents and reiterates that its monitoring and enforcement in Byrnihat are continuous and transparent.
