Coal forum for small-scale mining to revive industry

By Our Reporter

By Our Reporter

SHILLONG, May 20: The State Coordination Committee of Coal Owners, Miners, Dealers, and Exporters Forum has proposed a shift toward small-scale scientific underground mining to break the decade-long deadlock in Meghalaya’s coal industry.

In a meeting held on May 19, the Forum—representing stakeholders from the Jaintia, Khasi, and Garo Hills—discussed the economic distress caused by the 2014 ban on traditional rat-hole mining and the subsequent challenges of implementing the 2019 scientific mining regulations.

The Forum argued that large-scale open-cast mining models used in mainland India are neither technically nor economically viable in Meghalaya due to the state’s unique geological conditions.

As an alternative to both unsafe rat-hole practices and unviable open-cast methods, the body has prepared a draft proposal for small-scale scientific underground mining.

“Coal mining has historically been a vital livelihood for thousands of indigenous people. The ban has led to severe economic hardship for those dependent on the trade, transportation, and export sectors,” the Forum stated.

The new proposal focuses on environmental safeguards, including the treatment of mine outflow water, worker safety, and the elimination of illegal mining activities. The Forum believes this model will provide a sustainable pathway to resuming legal mining while generating significant revenue for the state government.

The draft has been sent to stakeholders across the state to gather feedback on its feasibility in different regions. Following this consultation, a final plan will be submitted to Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma.