An alleged instance of illegal coal mining has led to another fatality in Meghalaya, after a labourer from Assam collapsed and died at a mine site in East Jaintia Hills district, police said on November 18. The incident has renewed concerns over the persistence of banned mining activities in the state.
The deceased was identified as 48-year-old Mosaid Ali, a resident of Jamuna Moudanga in Assam’s Hojai district. According to police, Ali was working at an illegal coal mine in Umthe village when he suddenly collapsed on January 14. He was immediately taken to the Sutnga community health centre, where doctors declared him brought dead, Superintendent of Police Vikash Kumar confirmed.
Following the incident, police sealed the mine and initiated an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the labourer’s death. Authorities said further action would be taken based on the findings of the inquiry.
The case has also drawn the attention of Justice (Retd) BP Katakey, who has been appointed by the Meghalaya High Court to oversee issues related to illegal coal mining and transportation in the state. He has sought a detailed report from the police regarding the incident.
The death has once again highlighted the continued operation of illegal coal mines in Meghalaya despite the ban on rat-hole mining imposed by the National Green Tribunal. Social activist Agnes Kharshiing said the incident underscores that unlawful mining and coal transportation remain prevalent in several parts of the state, posing serious risks to workers’ lives.
