By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 7: Khliehriat MLA Kyrmen Shylla has called for a "livelihood-oriented" approach to coal mining in Meghalaya, urging the government to establish clear regulations that protect both the environment and the communities dependent on the sector.
Responding to the recent public rally held by the Jaintia Coal Miners and Dealers Association, Shylla stated that the high turnout reflects the urgency of the issue. He noted that coal remains the economic backbone for many households in the region and that stakeholders are waiting for administrative clarity.
The MLA clarified that the demand is for a regulated framework rather than illegal mining. He stressed the need for clear Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to allow activities within a legal ambit.
Shylla expressed reservations regarding the feasibility of large-scale open-cast or "scientific mining" in the state. He cited geological constraints, such as narrow coal seams, and the high cost of extensive excavation as major hurdles. He suggested exploring alternative tunnel-based mining methods equipped with modern safeguards. He explained that traditional practices could be made sustainable by implementing safety protocols and filtering water discharged from mines to prevent the contamination of local streams. Addressing the term 'rat-hole mining', Shylla argued that the focus should remain on safety and adherence to environmental guidelines rather than the label attached to the method.
The MLA also pointed out that existing policy requirements, specifically the need for 100 hectares of contiguous land, are impractical for most miners in East Jaintia Hills.
"A requirement of 100 hectares or more is not practical for most people. Even then, the cost of extraction through open-cast methods could outweigh the returns, given the small thickness of coal seams," he observed.
Cautioning against a blanket ban, Shylla said that stopping mining altogether serves neither the people nor the state's revenue interests.
Regarding ongoing illegal mining and subsequent crackdowns, the MLA remarked that many are compelled to engage in such activities due to a lack of alternative livelihoods.
He reiterated that while he does not support illegal practices, providing clear SOPs and legal avenues would ensure that people work within the system.