From Our Correspondent
TURA, Feb 10: Continuing its crackdown on illegalities in the plains belt of West Garo Hills, a District Level Task Force (DLTF) on Tuesday conducted a seizure and demolition operation in the Phulbari area.
Led by DFO and DLTF member secretary Rupankar Marak, the task force raided sites in Gomaijhora, Phulbari, and Batabara following reports of unauthorised brick earth mining and the establishment of illegal kilns.
The action was taken after the units were found to be in violation of the Meghalaya Minor Mineral Concession Rules (MMMCR), 2016. The kilns were operating without the required Consent to Establish (CTE) and Consent to Operate (CTO) from the State Pollution Control Board. Authorities noted that the operators had persisted with illegal activities despite previously being served show-cause notices.
The DLTF—which includes the District Administration, Police, Forest department, Water Resources, and the State Pollution Control Board—had recently authorised the demolition of such kilns and the seizure of all illegally mined earth.
During the drive, officials used two JCBs and a dumper truck to transport seized materials to the Range Office for safe custody.
Marak confirmed that regular inspections and monitoring will continue to prevent future violations. He also encouraged citizens to report any illegal brick earth mining or kiln operations to the department.
