TURA: The West Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner has issued prohibitory orders against mining activities or extraction of coal commonly known as ‘Rat Hole’ mining anywhere in the district of West Garo Hills.
“All concerned shall follow the directions of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and such mining shall be stopped forthwith with the consequent prohibition of plying of coal trucks from the illegal mines,” the DC’s order read.
When contacted, the Deputy Commissioner informed that he was only enforcing the NGT order.
According to Bakshi, mining is not done in a large way in Garo Hills and only some small coal mines exist in the district.
He also said that the onus is on the Nokma and District Council to stop rat hole mining activities.