NGT asks Meghalaya government to submit report on coal mining

The National Green Tribunal today directed the Meghalaya government to submit a complete report adopted for the purpose of promoting scientific and permissible mining of coal which was banned since April last year.
"In the next hearing, the state government is directed to submit a complete report adopted for the purpose of promoting scientific and permissible mining of coal," Justice U D Salvi said while conducting a series of hearing of the Circuit Bench here.
He said the compliance with the direction will, to a great extent, help in suppressing clandestine mining of coal in the state.
The Tribunal, which is upholding its ban on illegal and unscientific mining and transportation of coal in the state, also directed the coal mine owners to deposit royalty amount due in lump-sum within 14 days via RGTS bank to bank transfers.

It however, upheld, that the transportation of assessed coal and whose royalty had been paid will be allowed to transport till February 11.
The Tribunal has also appointed five independent environment commissioners to conduct independent inspections at the weigh bridges and mines and see if the orders passed by the tribunal are being followed in letter and spirit.
Justice U D Salvi also recommended formation of a unified platform of all stakeholders including the Shillong Municipal Board, the Cantonment Board and the Khasi Hills Autonomous to be headed by the East Khasi Hills deputy commissioner for effective implementation of remedial measures.