SHILLONG, June 22: The State Co-ordination Committee of Coal Owners, Miners, Dealers, and Exporters’ Forum on Monday pitched for a Meghalaya-specific legal framework to facilitate the resumption of “small-scale scientific underground” coal mining. The forum argued that existing national mining regulations do not adequately address the unique geological, constitutional, and land ownership realities of the state.
A delegation of the forum met Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma at his official residence and submitted a detailed memorandum outlining its proposals to revive the coal sector. Senior officials from the Department of Mining and Geology were also present during the meeting.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, the committee’s adviser Wanshwa Nongtdu said the forum was not seeking a return to unregulated mining practices but was instead advocating a scientific and sustainable model tailored to Meghalaya’s unique conditions.
He noted that the existing open-cast mining framework introduced in 2020 mandates a minimum area of 100 hectares, which is virtually impossible for most coal-bearing landowners in the state to meet, given that coal resources are spread across small parcels of privately and community-owned land.
“The objective is not open-cast mining but small scientific underground mining. A mining lease area of up to five hectares would be sufficient for local miners while ensuring compliance with environmental and safety standards,” he said.
The forum proposed underground coal mining leases restricted to a maximum of five hectares. It highlighted that coal deposits occur in thin, discontinuous, and irregular seams, making the “room and pillar” method of underground mining and scientifically viable alternative.
The proposal calls for mandatory approvals from the state government, district councils, and village Dorbars, along with geological surveys, core drilling, and preparation of detailed mining plans to ascertain coal reserves and ensure safe extraction practices.
On the safety front, it emphasised scientifically designed mine shafts, proper support systems inside underground tunnels, retaining structures in vulnerable areas, and safeguards against water seepage and mine collapse.
Environmentally, the forum suggested designated coal dumping sites, construction of drainage systems and check dams, afforestation around mining zones, and regular monitoring of water quality in nearby rivers and streams. It also proposed a Joint Environment Cell comprising landowners and mine owners to monitor activities and submit periodic compliance reports.
Forum member Samborbi Lyngdoh focused on legal hurdles posed by the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act and urged utilisation of Sixth Schedule provisions.
He noted that Paragraph 12A of the Sixth Schedule contains provisions for exemptions from certain central laws through a notification issued by the President of India.
The Chief Minister directed Advocate General Amit Kumar to examine the legal issues involved and explore possible avenues for engaging with the Centre.
The committee’s chairman Sonny L. Khyriem described the meeting as encouraging and expressed optimism for the early resumption of coal mining activities. He stressed the need for better coordination between state and central authorities to resolve the longstanding impasse.
Deputy CM Sniawbhalang Dhar and local MLAs Kyrmen Shylla and Santa Mary Shylla also attended the meeting.
