Shillong : C. H. Vijayashankar said thousands of families lost their livelihoods following the ban on rat-hole coal mining but stated that Meghalaya is steadily transitioning toward regulated and scientific extraction.
Addressing the Assembly on the opening day of the budget session, the Governor noted that the ban imposed by the National Green Tribunal and upheld by the Supreme Court of India severely impacted those dependent on coal mining.
He said the state government is working to shift the sector toward scientific and sustainable mining practices.
Scientific Mining Approvals Underway
Highlighting progress, Vijayashankar said:
Three applicants have received final approval and begun scientific mining operations.
Coal from these operations is now being transported across the country by road and rail.
Twenty additional applications are in advanced stages of clearance.
He described these developments as steady progress toward restoring livelihoods while ensuring environmental responsibility.
Judicial Commission for EJH Mine Blast
The Governor’s address came days after the fatal mine explosion at Mynsngat-Thangsko in East Jaintia Hills, which claimed more than 30 lives.
Responding to concerns over safety enforcement, he announced that the government will constitute a Judicial Inquiry Commission under the Commission of Inquiry Act to investigate the incident.
Crackdown on Illegal Mining
Authorities have intensified enforcement in the district:
14 persons arrested
62 FIRs registered (including five filed before the incident)
15,224.72 metric tonnes of coal seized
25.5 kg gelatin explosives and 74 detonators recovered
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe has also been ordered by the Director General of Police to ensure the case is thoroughly investigated and legal action pursued.
The government maintains that transitioning to regulated mining alongside strict enforcement is essential to protect both livelihoods and environmental safety.