SHILLONG, June 29: With residents of Jaintia Hills continuing to struggle under the coal mining ban, Sutnga-Saipung MLA Santa Mary Shylla has called for a shift toward the region’s tourism sector as a sustainable long-term alternative.
Shylla emphasised that since coal is a finite resource, the public should consider diversifying their business interests. “Coal will not last forever. Tourism has a bright future for the people,” she said.
The MLA identified two undiscovered waterfalls in East Jaintia Hills as potential attractions. She confirmed that a survey has been conducted and the project will be taken up once government sanction is secured.
Addressing the ongoing efforts to resume coal mining, Shylla highlighted a recent meeting between the Chief Minister and local miners. She noted that miners have requested a reduction in the minimum permissible mining area from the current 100 hectares to 5-10 hectares.
Shylla said the state government and coal miners will soon present a proposal for this “alternate mining” model to the central government.
