The Meghalaya High Court recently heard a suo motu case regarding illegal coal mining in the state.
The court was presented with a status report from the state government, detailing progress on various recommendations made by the Justice B P Katakey Committee.
The report highlighted that the state government had engaged the Meghalaya Basin Development Authority to conduct a drone survey of coal lying outside designated depots.
The survey, expected to be completed by the end of January 2025, aims to identify areas where coal mining is taking place.
Additionally, the Central Mine Planning & Design Institute Limited has been assigned to close abandoned coal mines, with pilot projects underway in East Jaintia Hills and South Garo Hills districts.
The court also addressed complaints of illegal transportation of coal, with the state government issuing modified standard operating procedures (SOPs) for transportation on November 5, 2024.
The court directed the state government to prioritize the submission of final reports on pending complaints.
Regarding the sale of seized coal, the state government has issued orders for auction, with permission obtained from the concerned court.
However, the court noted that details on the quantity of coal available and Earnest Money Deposit (EMD) forfeitures are still awaited.
The court emphasized the need for the state government to fast-track the implementation of recommendations, including the setting up of integrated check-gates.
The Division Bench of Justice H S Thangkhiew and Justice W Diengdoh directed the state government to ensure compliance with the recommendations and keep the Justice Katakey Committee informed.
The matter has been listed for further orders on February 10, 2025.
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