Meghalaya: Illegal coal mining may restart if mines not closed

Guwahati: Justice (retired) BP Katakey, appointed by the High Court of Meghalaya, has warned that over 30,000 coal mine openings across the state are vulnerable to reactivation for illegal operations unless closed.

The East Jaintia Hill district alone has a staggering number of mine openings, with an additional 10,000 in other districts.

These mine openings pose significant risks to humans, livestock, and the environment.

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Acid mine drainage continues to be a major concern, and Justice Katakey has urged the government to prioritize closure, especially near human habitations.

Justice Katakey's action report recommended controlled blasting to close these rat-hole mines.

The government has assigned the project to CMPDI on a trial basis, and a project report has been submitted.

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The High Court of Meghalaya has sought a report on the action initiated and scheduled a hearing for December 2.

Allegations of continued illegal mining in South West Khasi Hills have prompted Justice Katakey to direct an inquiry and submit a report to the high court.

The findings indicate ongoing illegal mining activities, with some mines capable of immediate reactivation.

Closing these mines will be a daunting task, particularly in remote areas where daily oversight is impossible, the report stated.