SHILLONG : A Viral video that blamed an ethanol plant in Byrnihat for worsening pollution has prompted an inspection by the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB), which says the unit was operating within the prescribed emission limits. The controversy erupted after a journalist-vlogger’s documentary circulated widely on social media, claiming that Umiam Distillation Pvt Ltd, located at the Export Promotion Industrial Park (EPIP), was the biggest source of pollution in Byrnihat. The video showed thick white plumes rising from the plant and alleged that nearby villages were suffering because of its operations.
With the video gaining traction online, the MSPCB carried out a suo motu inspection on Tuesday without waiting for a formal complaint.
A team from the Board visited the plant and conducted emission monitoring. The inspection found particulate matter (PM) emissions at 23.1 mg/Nm³, well below the permissible limit of 50 mg/Nm³. The Board also said other emission levels were within the prescribed standards. Officials found the plant’s pollution-control systems functioning normally, including its electrostatic precipitator and Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) system. Water samples collected from the unit have been sent for laboratory analysis. Speaking to media person, MSPCB Member Secretary G.H. Chyrmang said the white plume seen in the viral video was steam generated during the production process and not smoke released from the chimney. He also questioned why the documentary singled out one industry despite Byrnihat being home to several industrial units, saying conclusions should be based on scientific evidence rather than visual observations alone.
The company also rejected the allegations, maintaining that it complies with environmental regulations and operates modern pollution-control equipment. It has called for an independent scientific study covering the entire Byrnihat Industrial Estate to identify pollution sources, including industries, vehicular traffic and construction activities. At the same time, the MSPCB acknowledged that Byrnihat remains a non-attainment town under the National Clean Air Programme and continues to face serious air quality challenges. The Board said it has intensified monitoring over the years and claimed pollution levels have shown improvement, while action has been taken against several industries found violating environmental norms.
Although the inspection cleared the ethanol plant of exceeding emission limits, the wider debate over pollution in Byrnihat is far from settled. Residents continue to raise concerns over deteriorating air quality, with many demanding a comprehensive assessment of all possible pollution sources rather than focusing on a single industry.