SHILLONG: The District Magistrate, East Khasi Hills District, Shillong has promulgated an order under Section 144 CrPC restraining illegal mining and quarrying in the hill slopes and removal of sand from river-beds by any person, company or authority without obtaining Mining Licence/Quarry Permit and other Clearance Certificates from the Competent Authority/(s), according to a government communique.
The order has been issued in view of the notice received that illegal quarrying and mining on hill slopes and removal of sand from river-beds are taking place in various parts of East Khasi Hills District and that such indiscriminate quarrying and mining activities has led to the constant out-flow of stone, sand and other minerals into the rivers and down from the hill slopes which ultimately lead to destruction of vegetation on the slopes and damages the water sources and destroyed the aquatic life.
It may be mentioned that most of the rivers have been polluted due to stone and sand mining and as such the water are no longer potable and fit for drinking purposes, etc., and whereas, it is necessary to ensure compliance of the aforesaid order within the district to prevent danger to human life, health and safety and to protect the environment.
This order shall come into force with immediate effect throughout the entire East Khasi Hills District until further orders.
