Govt frames rules to end illegal mining activities

SHILLONG, March 15: The Meghalaya Cabinet on Tuesday framed rules under Section 21 of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act in a bid to prevent illegal mining, storage and transportation of minerals in the state.
Speaking to media persons after the Cabinet meeting, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said the rules were framed by the government based on the observation of the NGT Court.
The Meghalaya Minerals Prevention of illegal mining, Transportation, Storage Rules, 2022 will apply to both major and minor minerals, the CM said, while adding that the rules will mostly deal with proper monitoring of illegal transportation, storage of minerals and regular issuance of mineral transportation challans.
The CM said that under relevant sections of the MMDR Act, the state government is mandated to frame rules to check all illegalities with regard to mining and transportation of minerals, including coal.
He admitted that though the mandate was there, there were no rules in the state. He also pointed out that these rules should have been framed a long time ago.