By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, June 8: Former Cabinet Minister Kyrmen Shylla on Monday said open-cast coal mining is not a viable option for East Jaintia Hills, citing the region’s unique geographical and mining conditions.
Speaking to reporters, Shylla stated that while open-cast techniques may work in other parts of Meghalaya, they are impractical for the Jaintia Hills belt. He revealed that a representation is being prepared for the Chief Minister proposing an alternative extraction method that avoids both traditional rat-hole mining and the open-cast system.
According to Shylla, the state government will examine the suggested model once submitted and, if found suitable, forward it to the central government for necessary approval. He expressed hope that the new method would provide a sustainable solution for the region’s mining industry.
Jaintia Hills, once a major coal hub, has faced economic hardship since 2014 after the National Green Tribunal (NGT) banned rat-hole mining. Although the state government has since introduced scientific mining, strict regulations have limited progress. Currently, only mines spanning at least 100 hectares are eligible for a licence, and only four such licenses have been granted to date.
The state government remains under pressure to secure permissions for smaller mining operations. Local miners have intensified their demand for the resumption of activities to support small-scale operators.
Meanwhile, the Jaintia Coal Miners and Dealers Association (JCMDA) is awaiting a government response to its three-month ultimatum regarding mining issues. The association is also drafting a separate mining plan in consultation with stakeholders from Khasi and Garo Hills. On April 7, the JCMDA passed a resolution demanding that smaller mines be granted the requisite permissions to operate.
MDA united ahead of Rajya Sabha election
UDP leader Kyrmen Shylla, on the other hand, on Monday asserted that the ruling Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) government remains united as it prepares for the upcoming Rajya Sabha election scheduled on June 18.
Shylla said the decision of the MDA constituents to field a common candidate for the Rajya Sabha seat reflects the unity and strength of the coalition government.
“The move to field a common candidate clearly indicates that the MDA is united,” Shylla said.
He also downplayed the resignation of former UDP vice president Robertjune Kharjahrin over the decision of the party to support NPP leader James P.K. Sangma’s candidature for the biennial elections.
“Those were his personal feelings. We support each other in MDA which shows that we stand united,” Shylla said.
