SHILLONG : Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Thursday said that scientific coal mining in the state has gained momentum, with four individuals already granted licences and investments made in modern equipment and infrastructure.
Speaking to reporters, Sangma said the initial phase of scientific mining has begun following the issuance of licences and the deployment of required machinery.
“Four individuals have been given licences and investments have been made at different levels. Equipment has been placed and at a certain level, scientific mining has started,” the Chief Minister said.
Highlighting tangible progress, Sangma said that scientifically mined coal has already been dispatched on two occasions.
“There was an instance where we flagged off scientifically mined coal in a certain batch. In fact, it has happened twice,” he added.
Expressing optimism about further expansion, the Chief Minister said that several more licence applications are currently awaiting clearance from the central government.
“Approximately 17 to 20 applications are lying with the central government. Now that the SOPs are clear and the first four — which were the most difficult — have been cleared, I expect the remaining applications and many more coming in to get licences very soon,” Sangma said.
He acknowledged that the introduction of a new mining framework, technology, and procedures took time but stressed that the most challenging phase has been completed.
“It is a process. It is a new system with new technology and procedures, so it took some time to put everything in place. But I would not be wrong in saying that the more difficult part is over. Now it is a question of expanding it and involving many more miners,” he said.
The Chief Minister added that the state government remains committed to promoting regulated and environmentally responsible mining practices while ensuring economic benefits for the people of Meghalaya.