Nongkhnum, in West Khasi Hills, believed to be the second largest island in Asia (25 sq km) after Majuli in Assam, is losing its rugged beauty because of rampant deforestation and charcoal stains, says a report. Timber sharks cut down trees and burn the wood to produce charcoal that is supplied to industrial units in Byrnihat, alloy-manufacturing units primarily. What used to be a lush river island is slowly turning into an ash-stained stretch. Are any conservation measures on the way?