Over 1.92 Lakh MT of Illegal Coal Found in Meghalaya, Justice Katakey Flags Massive Illegal Coal Operations

Meghalaya Illegal Coal Operations: Katakey’s report, more than 1.80 lakh metric tonnes were detected in East Jaintia Hills.

Over 1.92 lakh metric tonnes of illegally mined coal have been discovered in four districts of Meghalaya, with East Jaintia Hills emerging as the epicentre of the activity. Justice (retd) B.P. Katakey, who heads the committee appointed by the Meghalaya High Court to probe illegal coal mining, has unearthed shocking findings across the state.

According to Katakey’s report, more than 1.80 lakh metric tonnes were detected in East Jaintia Hills alone. The remaining coal was found across West Khasi Hills (11,707.99 metric tonnes), South Garo Hills (35.01 metric tonnes), and Southwest Khasi Hills.

In the latter, an initial 797.65 metric tonnes were detected, but an aerial survey by MBDA revealed an additional 2,121.62 metric tonnes, bringing the district’s total to nearly 3,000 metric tonnes.

Justice Katakey has issued firm instructions to the respective district administrations. The East Jaintia Hills administration must submit a periodical report by May 23, while the other three districts must comply by May 14. He emphasised the urgency of timely verification and swift enforcement actions.

These revelations mark a significant breakthrough in the ongoing efforts to clamp down on illegal coal mining in Meghalaya, which continues despite a ban imposed by the National Green Tribunal.

Katakey is expected to file his next detailed report by May 27, shedding further light on the scale of the illegal operations and the enforcement measures being taken.

Also Read: CM Conrad K Sangma Writes To Centre, Urges Reallocation Of CUET 2025 Centres To Meghalaya

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