SHILLONG, June 6: The United Democratic Party (UDP) has sought strict enforcement of laws to check any form of illegal coal mining and transportation for putting an end to knee-jerk reactions to mishaps.
“Knee-jerk reactions and responses to unfortunate incidents and tragedies are not an answer the people expect,” UDP general secretary, Jemino Mawthoh said.
He was referring to Chief Minister, Conrad K Sangma’s statement that action as per the law will be taken against all those responsible for the recent coal mine mishap at Umpleng in East Jaintia Hills where five miners have remained trapped since May 30 and are feared dead.
Stating that coal mining in the state has been an economic activity for decades and that it has provided livelihood to families, Mawthoh said the state has earned substantial revenue and its economic activities have been robust in the coal mining areas and all along the transportation route.
He said accidents occurred in the past ) claiming lives of people and affecting their families. He said the issue of environmental degradation has been raised often and there is a need to balance development and environmental protection.
“Keeping all these considerations in view and the benefits that can be accrued, adherence to regulatory measures and strict enforcement to check illegalities are of paramount importance,” he said.
