Shillong, Jun 15: Residents in the Garo Hills region are raising serious concerns regarding the illegal transportation of coal. Reports indicate that this illicit activity has been a recurring issue, particularly in the East Garo Hills and West Khasi Hills districts.
Residents of Nengkra, including pressure groups the Garo Students’ Union (GSU), Garoland State Movement Committee (GSMC), A’chik Holistic Awakening Movement (AHAM) have come forward with claims and photographic evidence of coal trucks operating without proper documentation.
According to the groups, these trucks frequently transport overloaded amounts of coal, exceeding the permissible limit of 12 tons as mandated by the Motor Vehicle Act of 1988. They noted stated the trucks regularly pass through Nengkra at night, presumably to evade inspection and legal consequences.
In light of these concerns, the groups have formally submitted a complaint to the East Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner, urging swift action against those responsible for the illegal transportation of coal. They stressed the environmental hazards posed by such operations, alongside the resultant financial losses for the government.
The groups have called for thorough investigations into these illegal practices to ensure accountability and protect both citizens and the environment.
Moreover, similar concerns have been voiced by residents along the Riangdo to Athiabari road in West Khasi Hills. Sharing photographs of overloading, the residents said this dangerous practice not only violates legal regulations but also poses significant risks to public safety by increasing the likelihood of road accidents and damaging infrastructure.
