GUWAHATI: Meghalaya chief minister, Conrad Sangma on Wednesday said that his government was working in tandem with the Centre to resolve the mining issue in the state.
“We want to ensure that mining takes place in Meghalaya while trying to maintain a balance between ecology and economy. We want to ensure that jobs are protected. But at the same time, mining safety, site safety of miners and environment cannot be compromised,” Sangma said here on Wednesday.
The National Green Tribunal has banned rat-hole mining in the state in April 2014 even as the BJP, an ally in the NPP-led Meghalaya Democratic Alliance had prior to the state Assembly polls pledged to come up with a solution against the ban after coming to power.
Sangma had in September, said that his government would focus on finding a solution in a bid to resume mining in the state.
“This (lifting ban on mining) is a complicated issue and we are getting support from the government of India. The state government is working in tandem with the Centre to try and work out a solution,” he said.
