Shillong, Feb 7: The East Jaiñtia Hills District Magistrate has directed seizure of vehicles and machinery and imposed a complete ban on illegal coal mining in Thangsko area.
An order was issued today by District Magistrate Manish Kumar after the Meghalaya High Court directed authorities to take immediate, effective, and stringent action against all persons involved in illegal mining activities.
Kumar said the magistrates, with police assistance, will identify and arrest mine owners, operators, financiers, and all persons involved in illegal mining activities.
The district officials have also been asked to seize and secure all incriminating materials connected with illegal mining activities.
All magistrates deployed for enforcement shall exercise strict vigilance and conduct inspections throughout Thangsko area and to initiate legal proceedings against offenders under the relevant provisions of law, including the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act and allied rules, Kumar said.
He said there are credible complaints and reports from local residents and through social media indicating the continuing prevalence of illegal mining and unlawful extraction of minor minerals in the Thangsko area.
“There exists a serious likelihood of obstruction to lawful enforcement by certain individuals or groups during operations against illegal mining activities,” Kumar said in the order prohibiting the assembly or gathering of more than five persons in and around illegal mining sites and operations areas, except for officials engaged in government duties.
