Shillong: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma has underscored the need to strike a balance between livelihoods, safety, and the environment regarding coal mining in the state. "I stress on the word balance because that is really what is important. While we have to look at livelihood, we have to ensure that we continue to take care of our people, we need to also take care of the lives and the safety of the miners," he told the media on Wednesday.
Balancing Priorities in Coal Mining
Sangma emphasized that while coal mining is a crucial livelihood aspect, it is equally important to balance the safety of miners and the environmental impact. He made these remarks in reference to the revival of operations in smaller coal mines across the state. "In the process, there will never be a kind of a perfect system… there will always be challenges ahead," the Chief Minister added, noting that scientific mining has already commenced under central approvals.
Positive Response from Centre
The CM revealed that the state has received a "positive response" from the Centre on its request to permit smaller coal mines to operate. However, he refrained from sharing specific details until final clearance is obtained. "We are getting positive response but I would refrain from giving details right now until and unless we have the final clearance from the government," Sangma stated, referring to ongoing discussions with the central government to allow mines below the current 100-hectare threshold.
Current Mining Operations
As per the Chief Minister, larger mines with areas of 100 hectares are currently being permitted by the Government of India. Permissions have been granted for four such mines, out of which three are already active. "Large quantity of coal from this scientifically mined coal have already started being exported outside the state. So, the process has started but we have a long way to go," he said.
Addressing Challenges for Small Miners
Sangma expressed concern for small miners who lack the requisite land area for operations. "Our concerns are actually the small miners, who are not having the kind of requisite areas that is required, so those challenges are in the process, we are trying to address them by seeking permission from government of India where smaller mines can be given permission," he explained.
