BJP member advocates for resumption of uranium mining in Meghalaya

SHILLONG: A national executive member of the BJP from Shillong in Meghalaya has appealed to union minister of state for atomic energy, Dr Jitendra Singh, urging for the revival of uranium mining in the West Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya.

Elizabeth Nongbri, also the head of the North East Sunshine Trust (NEST), a registered non-governmental organization in Shillong, emphasized their grassroots connections and expertise in a letter addressed to Dr Singh.

Nongbri asserted their capability to successfully facilitate the venture by engaging with local communities and persuading them of the substantial benefits that would accrue to the region.

Highlighting the significant commercial value of the uranium deposits in Meghalaya, Nongbri lamented the missed opportunities due to previous setbacks caused by vested interests obstructing progress.

She referenced Government of India surveys indicating vast uranium deposits in West Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya and emphasized the need to overcome obstacles hindering exploration efforts.

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Drawing parallels with states like Jharkhand, which have capitalized on smaller uranium reserves, Nongbri urged Meghalaya to follow suit and tap into the potential benefits of uranium mining.

Uranium mining has long been a contentious issue in Meghalaya, with the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) staunchly opposing it by withholding necessary no objection certificates (NoCs).

Previous attempts by the Uranium Corporation of India Limited (UCIL) to initiate open-cast uranium mining in the South West Khasi Hill district of Meghalaya were met with opposition due to concerns over radiation impacts on health and the environment.

Efforts to address safety concerns, including proposals for safety measures by UCIL and exploratory drilling by the Atomic Minerals Directorate (AMD), have been met with continued resistance from anti-mining groups and political leaders.