SHILLONG, Sep 24: Cabinet Minister Kyrmen Shylla has welcomed the Centre’s decision to grant mining licences and allocate three coal blocks in East Jaintia Hills.
“It is a blessing for the people, especially of East Jaintia Hills. I believe the mining plan will not have much issue. All in all, it is a great relief,” said Shylla on Friday.
Lamenting that many who were dependent on coal mining directly or indirectly for livelihood have suffered a lot, Shylla expressed hope that the central government’s decision will now abate their distress.
He also expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Coal Minister Pralhad Joshi and Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma.
It may be mentioned that the Union Coal Ministry on Thursday granted the mining licenses and allocated the coal blocks to Thomas Nongtdu and Nehlang Lyngdoh, both coal barons. According to the approved mining plan, the mining operations in the three blocks will start in 2022.
