SHILLONG, Jan 15: All eyes are on the Ministry of Coal for the final approval to restart coal mining in Meghalaya through scientific methods.
It has been more than a decade since rat-hole coal mining was halted in the state following an order by the National Green Tribunal (NGT), and efforts have since been underway to resume mining operations sustainably.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, addressing the issue, revealed that public hearings were conducted a few months ago in three locations as part of the process to begin scientific coal mining.
“Following these hearings, the files were reviewed by the Forest Department and Pollution Control Board. They have now reached the Ministry of Coal in New Delhi for final clearance,” he said but refrained from specifying a timeline for the resumption of mining operations.
The Chief Minister acknowledged the delays, citing the complexity of the approval process. He explained that Meghalaya’s unique land tenure system posed challenges, as it required the Centre to create special provisions for the state. Additionally, the distinctive nature of coal deposits in Meghalaya rendered existing mining technologies unsuitable, necessitating the development of tailored solutions.
“However, we are in the final stage now,” Sangma assured.
On the issue of abandoned mines, the Chief Minister said about Rs 500 crore from the Meghalaya Reclamation Fund would be utilized for their closure and reclamation. The state government has already engaged firms to execute pilot projects in three to four locations.
Responding to allegations of illegal coal mining in the state, Sangma said the government takes strict action whenever such cases are reported.
