SHILLONG, Feb 4: Amid the brouhaha over alleged ongoing illegal coal mining and its transportation in Meghalaya, Governor Satya Pal Malik has banked on adopting scientific mining to generate additional revenue in the state, which has of late seen the government come under fire over reportedly giving a free hand to illegal mining and transportation of the mineral.
“The state does not have much resource for revenue and if mining is done properly, it will generate funds and serve the purpose,” he said, while adding that the government should plead with the National Green Tribunal (NGT) to make headway towards the scientific mining idea.
On the boundary dispute between Assam and Meghalaya, the Governor opined that both states should attempt to resolve the matter amicably. However, if it is not successful, Centre can intervene into the matter, he added.
Earlier, the Governor had lauded the state government for doing well on the development front, while also stating that the outcome of several central flagship programmes has been impressive. “I had taken stock of developmental programme and PM projects in all the districts, and the results are good,” he said.
With regard to the handling of COVID-19 situation, Malik also praised the Meghalaya government for its efforts, saying, “We are witnessing 5-6 cases per day, which is an achievement; although the protocols here are very strict,” he said, while recalling that he had undertaken COVID-19 test seven times till date.
Meanwhile, in the ongoing crackdown on illegal coal mining in different parts of East Jaintia Hills, Assistant Inspector General of Police (Administration), GK Iangrai, on Thursday informed that two more coal-laden trucks have been seized and five persons have been arrested in this connection.
“The investigation is still ensuing to ascertain the facts and circumstances of the case,” he added.
