POLLUTION

Meghalaya CM Calls for Alternative Livelihoods, Sustainable Measures to Tackle Illegal Coal Mining

coal yard. (Sarath Kumar/TOI, BCCL) — coal yard.
(Sarath Kumar/TOI, BCCL)

On Thursday, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma emphasised the need for alternative livelihoods for coal workers to effectively address the issue of illegal coal mining and transportation in the state. While efforts are underway to halt illegal mining, the government has enacted various laws to take action against those involved in such activities.

"We have taken actions and registered thousands of cases against individuals engaged in illegal coal mining," Sangma stated. Recognising that coal mining has been a traditional livelihood for generations, he highlighted the importance of arranging alternative sources of income for the workers to discourage their association with illegal mining.

Sangma expressed satisfaction that legal mining operations, adhering to scientific methods, are set to begin. The state government aims to introduce alternative livelihood schemes in sectors like tourism and agriculture to completely eradicate illegal mining.

“To use the drone technology, we require at least 100 drones,” the Chief Minister said, adding that the administrations have used drone technology in the past to map the stock of coal.

Meghalaya has already initiated the process of scientific mining to ensure sustainable practices while generating revenue for the state. Approval for mining leases has been granted by the Union Coal Ministry, and the income from the sector will be allocated to education and healthcare sectors for the socio-economic development of the state.

Illegal coal mining, including the hazardous practice of rat-hole mining, was banned in Meghalaya in 2014 by the National Green Tribunal (NGT). Despite subsequent directions from the Supreme Court and high court, illegal activities continued with the support of influential politicians and negligence from law enforcement agencies.

Rat-hole mining — prevalent in Meghalaya and other northeastern states — involves dangerous, narrow tunnels where only one person can enter at a time. This practice benefits coal traders but has led to accidents and fatalities. Efforts to retrieve trapped miners have been challenging, with recent incidents claiming lives and highlighting the urgent need for regulation and safety measures.

The commencement of scientific mining in Meghalaya marks a significant milestone, ensuring minimal environmental impact through sustainable and legally compliant extraction practices. The state aims to address the concerns surrounding illegal mining and foster socio-economic prosperity while prioritising environmental sustainability.

**

The above article has been published from a wire source with minimal modifications to the headline and text.

The Weather Company’s primary journalistic mission is to report on breaking weather news, the environment and the importance of science to our lives.