Margherita : A meeting of the Mine Closure Advisory Committee constituted under the Mine Closure Guidelines, 2025 was held at the office of the Chief General Manager, North Eastern Coalfields (NEC), Margherita, to review mine closure activities and discuss sustainable development initiatives for mining-affected communities. The meeting was chaired by Rahul Doley, ACS, Co-District Commissioner of Margherita and Chairperson of the Committee. It began with a welcome address by S. P. Dutta, Chief General Manager, NEC and Executive Director (Land & Revenue), Coal India Limited, followed by remarks from the Chairperson.
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During the meeting, NEC officials presented the status of final mine closure works at Jeypore Dilli Colliery, Baragolai Colliery, Ledo Colliery, Tipong Colliery and the Ledo Open Cast Project. The presentation highlighted progress in land reclamation, dismantling of infrastructure, safety measures, water management, rehabilitation efforts and compliance with approved Mine Closure Plans. The Committee also reviewed measures for community development and livelihood generation in mining-affected areas. Discussions focused on skill development, vocational training, self-employment opportunities, entrepreneurship promotion and greater participation of Self Help Groups (SHGs) and community-based organisations.
Members deliberated on the Just Transition Framework to ensure long-term socio-economic sustainability in post-mining regions. The meeting emphasized community participation in selecting alternative livelihood options and creating a roadmap for a smooth transition beyond mining activities. Issues related to the maintenance of community assets, transparency, monitoring and accountability were also discussed. The Committee identified priority projects and encouraged all stakeholders to work together for effective implementation of mine closure measures and sustainable development. Officials of NEC, representatives of local bodies, community organisations and other stakeholders attended the meeting.
