Government of Meghalaya has taken decisive action to address the issue of illegal coke plants in the state and also ensure compliance to the orders of the Hon’ble High Court of Meghalaya. Action had already been initiated against the illegal coke plats in December 2022 by shutting down the illegal plants and initiate the process of dismantling the bee-hive coke ovens to ensure that they do not become operational again. This process continued till April 2023 resulting in significant progress in eradication of these unlawful establishments.
In consonance with the Government’s commitment towards enforcing the law and directives of Hon’ble High Court, unequivocal directions were issued to demolish the entire infrastructure behind these unlawful establishments and identify and prosecute the culprits behind this illegal activity. Consequently, the demolition of chimneys and other physical infrastructure of the illegal plants has commenced from the 8th of July, 2023. 3 chimneys have been demolished till 10th July 02023 and the work is targeted to be completed by 20th of July. Several persons behind these illegal operations have been identified and arrested.
The concrete measures and proactive steps of the government in executing these actions to dismantle the infrastructure supporting the illegal coke plants are contrary to any perception of silence on the issue.
The government remains steadfast in its commitment towards upholding the rule of law and preserving the pristine environment of the state for its residents. The eradication of illegal coke plants is an essential step towards achieving these objectives and restoring the region’s ecological balance.
The government urges all residents, local community members, and relevant stakeholders to support these measures and cooperate with the authorities during the ongoing operation.