East Jaintia Hills District Administration Ramps Up Enforcement Against Illegal Mining Activities
In a decisive move to curb illegal mining operations, the East Jaintia Hills district administration has significantly intensified its enforcement drives across the region. The administration has deployed comprehensive teams comprising executive magistrates, police personnel, and officials from the directorate of mineral resources to conduct rigorous inspections and crackdowns on unlawful activities.
Substantial Coal Seizures and Destruction of Illegal Camps
During these enforcement operations, authorities have successfully seized approximately 38 metric tons of coal from various locations. Specifically, around 6 MT of coal were confiscated between Lumshyrmit and Cham Cham area, approximately 10 MT from roadside areas near Cham Cham and Mukhaialong, about 2 MT from the roadside stretch between Mutong and Mukhaialong village, and roughly 20 MT from Pynthorsale village.
In addition to the coal seizures, makeshift camps that were being utilized in connection with illegal mining activities have been identified and systematically destroyed. The district administration has also registered First Information Reports (FIRs) in relation to the reported illegal mining activities, with further legal actions currently underway to ensure accountability and deterrence.
Prohibitory Orders and Public Safety Measures
To bolster public safety and facilitate the ongoing enforcement operations, a prohibitory order under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNSS) has been issued by the District Magistrate. This order aims to restrict unauthorized access and activities in hazardous mining zones. The District Commissioner, Manish Kumar, has urgently appealed to the public to cooperate with authorities, refrain from engaging in illegal mining practices, and avoid visiting dangerous mining areas to prevent accidents and ensure community well-being.
Compensation for Mine Blast Victims and Search Operation Update
In a related development, the government has officially called off the search and rescue operation at the coal mine where a devastating blast claimed 30 lives on February 5. The district administration has provided an update on compensation efforts, stating that a total amount of Rs 24,00,000 has been disbursed to date to eight victims of the mine explosion at Mynsngat and Thangsko. Payments will continue to be made as and when documentary evidence is secured from the next of kin of the remaining families of the deceased, ensuring support for all affected parties.
The enforcement drives underscore the administration's commitment to addressing illegal mining and enhancing safety standards in the region, reflecting a proactive approach to governance and public welfare.
