NGT order stresses on strict enforcement of ban on coal mining

SHILLONG: The Meghalaya police on Wednesday released copies of the recent NGT order to the media which stresses on the need to strictly adhere to the ban on transportation and extraction of coal.
The statement of the police also refers to the directive of Mining and Geology department which had highlighted the need on the part of the police and officials to strictly enforce the order.
The March 25 order contains directions to DGP, Chief Secretary, Secretary of Mining department, all the district magistrates and SPs of respective districts to ensure the enforcement of the order with regard to “complete prohibition of illegal, unscientific and unregulated rat hole mining without any delay and default”.
“The order further said that if any case of violation is brought to our notice, henceforth, we will be compelled to take action against these officers personally in accordance with the law including directing them to pay compensation for degradation of the environment and ecology of the area falling under their jurisdiction”.
Meanwhile, rampant violations of the NGT order are being reported from the State almost on a daily basis despite the best efforts of the NGT to strictly enforce the ban.