NEWS – Justice Brojendra Prasad Katakey Panel Flags Lack of Progress in Restoring Coal Mining Damage in Meghalaya

HIGHLIGHTS

• Background
  • The High Court of Meghalaya appointed Justice Brojendra Prasad Katakey (retired) to address coal-related issues and restore the environment damaged by rat-hole coal mining.
  • Rat-hole mining, banned since April 2014 due to hazards, involves extracting coal through small tunnels.
• Key Findings of the Panel
  • The Meghalaya Environment Protection and Restoration Fund (MEPRF) remains underutilized, despite having ₹400 crore, along with another ₹100 crore from the Central Pollution Control Board.
  • Acid mine drainage continues to affect people living near abandoned mines, highlighting ongoing environmental challenges.
  • An audit of coal sources used in various industries is ongoing, aiming to ensure accountability and proper royalties.
• Recommendations and Actions
  • Immediate drone surveys are recommended to identify illegally mined coal deposits after transporting verified coal to designated depots.
  • Two coke plants are expected to pay ₹2.24 crore for using unaccounted coal, showcasing efforts to enforce regulations and accountability.
• Call for Action
  • The panel urges concerned departments to take necessary steps for ecological restoration and utilization of allocated funds for environmental protection.