SHILLONG : The Justice BP Katakey Committee, appointed by the Meghalaya High Court, has directed the immediate release of funds for the demolition of 33 illegal Coke Oven Plants operating in East Jaintia Hills and West Khasi Hills districts.
In its 34th interim report submitted before the High Court, the committee expressed serious concern over the possibility of clandestine resumption of coke production if the plants are not demolished without delay.
As per the order, 16 illegal Coke Oven Plants in East Jaintia Hills and 17 in West Khasi Hills are to be demolished within a fortnight from the date of release of funds. The committee has also instructed the Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of Police of the respective districts to ensure that the plants remain non-operational until demolition is completed.
“The Committee recommends immediate release of the required funds to the district administrations of East Jaintia Hills and West Khasi Hills for demolition of the aforementioned 33 Coke Oven Plants so as to rule out the possibility of the commencement of production stealthily,” Justice Katakey stated in the report.
The directive follows a Supreme Court order dated November 25, 2024, and forms part of continued efforts to curb illegal coal mining activities and prevent environmental degradation in the state.