Shillong, Feb 8: The East Jaintia Hills district administration has imposed a blanket ban on illegal coal mining in the Thangsko area, stepping up enforcement to curb unauthorised extraction activities following clear directions from the Meghalaya High Court. The decision, announced on February 7, marks a renewed and stringent push to dismantle illegal mining networks operating in the region.
District Magistrate Manish Kumar ordered the immediate seizure of all vehicles, machinery and materials linked to unlawful coal mining, underlining the administration’s zero-tolerance stance. In line with the High Court’s instructions, magistrates have been deployed along with police personnel to identify, detain and initiate legal action against mine owners, operators, financiers and others involved in illegal extraction activities.
Officials said the enforcement drive will focus not only on individuals directly engaged in mining but also on those providing logistical or financial support. All assets facilitating illegal mining, including equipment and transport vehicles, will be seized and subjected to legal proceedings to disrupt the operational chain sustaining such activities.
To strengthen monitoring, the administration has directed designated magistrates to maintain constant vigilance in Thangsko and carry out regular inspections. Offenders will be prosecuted under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act and other applicable laws, with authorities stressing that repeated violations will invite strict legal consequences.
The district magistrate acknowledged that illegal mining has continued despite earlier interventions. He cited credible complaints from local residents and reports circulating on social media indicating ongoing unlawful extraction of coal and minor minerals in the area, prompting the need for more decisive action.
Anticipating possible resistance during enforcement operations, the administration has also imposed restrictions on public movement near mining sites. Gatherings of more than five persons have been prohibited in and around mining areas in Thangsko, although the order exempts government officials performing authorised duties.
Officials said the measures are aimed at halting ongoing illegal mining activities and preventing future violations through sustained enforcement and visible action. The district administration reiterated its commitment to ensuring strict compliance with the law and restoring lawful management of natural resources in the Thangsko area.
