From Our Correspondent
JOWAI, Aug 23: Headmen from most villages in East Jaintia Hills (EJH) have voiced their strong support for the proposal to commence coal mining through scientific methods.
During an Environmental Public Hearing for the Nehlang Lyngdoh Coal Block held at Lumlakhi Wahsarang in Khliehriat C&RD Block, the headmen highlighted the severe impact of the National Green Tribunal’s decade-long ban on unscientific mining of coal, which began in 2014.
The headmen, during the public hearing, emphasised the resulting loss of livelihood in the region following the NGT’s ban.
They expressed confidence that with the support of local leaders like Dapmian Shylla, proprietor of Saryngkham A Coal Mine, and Leborlang Lyngdoh of Nehlang Lyngdoh Coal, the area could see a positive revival.
The headmen also assured that scientific mining practices are safe for workers and do not harm the environment, particularly the water sources, rivers and forests.
The hearing, organised by the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB), featured several other speakers, including former JHADC MDC Joinriwell Pyrtuh, Wahsarang headman Bhalang Laloo, former MLA Justine Dkhar, Lumshyrmit headman Phone Tariang, JNC president Sambormi Lyngdoh, et al.
During the meeting, all the speakers urged the authorities to expedite the issuance of necessary permits, including the Consent to Operate (CTO) and Consent to Establish (CTE), to the coal mine owners, enabling the commencement of mining using advanced technology.
