Shillong, Oct 19: A joint inspection of a mining site in South Garo Hills has sparked strong opposition from a conglomeration of pressure groups. The groups claim that coal mining is being carried out near protected forests and major rivers, posing a significant environmental threat.
They said that the mining area is located close to the Nokrek Biosphere Reserve, a protected ecological hotspot. Several rivers, including Rompa, Rongdik, Khakiza, and Rongma, are showing signs of pollution, silting and drying of tributaries.
The groups warn that unchecked mining will lead to deforestation, soil erosion and wildlife habitat loss, threatening endangered species.
The expansion of mining would destroy emerging eco-tourism destinations, harming local income sources and the cultural identity of the Garo people.
Tourism provides sustainable livelihood opportunities, whereas destructive mining harms nature and local communities.
