Meghalaya: Villagers demand closure of illegal coke plants citing health hazards

Guwahati: Residents of Nongsning and Umrasong villages in East Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya opposing the detrimental effects of illegal coke oven plants operating in their vicinity have demanded for immediate closure. 

In a petition submitted to the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB), the village councils painted a concerning picture of air and water pollution linked to these unauthorized facilities, posing significant health risks to their communities.

The petition outlines several grievances stating that the plants operate illegally, lack proper permits and flout environmental regulations. Secondly, their emissions are blamed for deteriorating air quality, potentially causing respiratory health problems among villagers.

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Thirdly, the single water source serving both villages is allegedly contaminated due to the coke oven operations.

They also complained about the lack of effective action despite repeated complaints lodged with various authorities over the past three years.

The communities urge the MSPCB to take immediate action, demanding the closure of these illegal plants and opposing the issuance of any new licenses.

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Meanwhile, a separate judicial committee appointed by the Meghalaya High Court has identified another layer of the problem.

Their investigation uncovered unpaid royalty and cess amounting to over Rs 2.40 crore owed by three coke oven plants in East Jaintia Hills.

These plants were found to have sourced coal illegally, evading their dues to the government. While some have since rectified their actions, others remain non-compliant.