Shillong: A technical team from the Union ministry of coal, accompanied by officials of the Central Mine Planning and Design Institute Ltd (CMPDI), the Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS) and Meghalaya’s Directorate of Mineral Resources, inspected coal-bearing areas in East Jaintia Hills and Khasi Hills last week to assess the feasibility of restarting small-scale coal mining in the state.The inspection was part of ongoing discussions between the Centre and Meghalaya govt on reviving coal mining through safe, scientific and environmentally sustainable methods.A govt statement said the team examined existing mining practices and assessed whether operations could resume within the applicable legal and regulatory framework. It also held discussions with senior state officials on the concerns of local miners, as well as the technical, safety and environmental requirements for mining suited to Meghalaya’s geology and landholding pattern.National Green Tribunal banned rat-hole coal mining in Meghalaya in April 2014 over concerns related to environmental damage, water pollution and fatal safety risks.The latest visit followed CM Conrad K Sangma’s meeting with Union minister for coal and mines G Kishan Reddy in New Delhi on July 7. Sangma had sought the revival of coal mining to support coal-dependent families while insisting on strict compliance with environmental and safety regulations.“Our govt is committed to exploring viable options to restart coal mining in Meghalaya, balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility,” Sangma said.Directorate of Mineral Resources said it would continue coordinating with the Union ministry of coal and other departments to take forward the process.
