Illegal coal mining is continuing in the state with no respite despite the proactiveness shown by the Meghalaya High Court to stop it.
Residents of West Khasi Hills district have reported unabated illegal rat hole mining in about five coal mining rich areas of West Khasi Hills district.
The villagers on condition of anonymity said that illegal coal mining is happening in Umthengkut, Umsnoh, Amarsang, Nirang (Tadteja), and Riangwaitlam villages in West Khasi Hills district.
Sources informed that Wahptit river in Nirang village has been severely affected and has threatened the quality of water due to illegal coal mining. The acidic coal water now flows to Ranikor river from Wahptit, sources added.
Meanwhile, social activist Agnes Kharshiing has urged the Director General of Police to trek to these places even as she questioned who is protecting these illegal activities leading to violation of orders of the Supreme Court and National Green Tribunal.
Questions have also been raised on the effectiveness of the forest, mining, directorate of mineral resources, transport departments and the district council to monitor illegal coal mining in these areas.
