Katakey panel confirms coal illegalities in SGH

SHILLONG, Jan 28: The High Court of Meghalaya-appointed committee, headed by Justice (retired) BP Katakey, has confirmed that coal is being illegally mined and transported in the South Garo Hills district.
“Coal is coming from somewhere, and mining is evidently taking place. This conclusion is based on available information, which I will include in my report to the High Court of Meghalaya,” Justice Katakey stated on Tuesday after reviewing the situation at a meeting.
The meeting addressed the implementation of Supreme Court directives to curb illegal mining in the state. Deputy Commissioners (DCs) of all districts were instructed to report the quantity of coal seized between November last year and January this year. While most DCs denied any mining activities in their districts, South Garo Hills reported the seizure of over 2,500 metric tons (MT) of illegal coal during the period.
The committee recently received seven complaints about illegal mining, which are currently under investigation. Notices have been issued in connection with some of these complaints, and the department concerned has been directed to record statements from the parties involved. Complaints regarding illegal mining have been reported in South Garo Hills, West Khasi Hills, and East Jaintia Hills.
One such complaint, accompanied by a video clip, was forwarded to the Chief Secretary. The matter has since been assigned to an Assistant Commissioner who has been instructed to submit a report by Wednesday.
While acknowledging the government’s cooperation in the inquiry, Justice Katakey noted delays in implementing some of the recommendations of the committee.
Addressing the availability of coal for coke plants, he recalled that a few years ago, the government was directed to audit the sources of coal used for coke production, ferroalloys, and power generation by cement plants. Cement companies were asked to pay Rs 400 crore, a decision that was challenged in the Supreme Court. The matter is pending in the court.
Regarding inventoried coal, it was reported that over 13 lakh MT of coal has been put up for auction, with bidders depositing payments for around 8 lakh MT. Approximately 11 lakh MT of coal remains in designated depots. The committee asked the government to submit a proposal for limiting the extension period for lifting this coal.
On the matter of aerial surveys to identify active coal mines, Justice Katakey stated that the committee is awaiting a report, with the final findings expected by February 28.
The survey will cover six locations to determine whether coal mining activities are ongoing in these areas.