The East Jaintia Hills district administration has clamped down on illegal coal mining in the Thangsko area, announcing a sweeping ban on unauthorised extraction activities. The decision, made public on February 7, comes after clear directions from the Meghalaya High Court calling for firm and immediate action against those involved in unlawful mining. District Magistrate Manish Kumar has ordered the seizure of all vehicles and machinery connected to such operations, signalling a tough stand by the authorities.
Acting on the court’s directive, the administration has deployed magistrates, supported by local police, to trace and detain mine owners, operators, financiers and anyone else linked to illegal coal extraction in Thangsko. Officials have also been instructed to secure all equipment, materials and assets tied to these activities in a bid to dismantle the networks sustaining the trade.
To strengthen enforcement, designated magistrates have been directed to keep close watch over the area, with regular inspections now mandatory. Those found violating the law will face prosecution under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, along with other applicable legal provisions.
Officials made it clear that action will extend beyond those directly engaged in mining. Any vehicle, machinery or material found supporting illegal extraction will be seized and subjected to legal proceedings, underlining what the administration describes as a zero-tolerance policy.
District Magistrate Manish Kumar acknowledged that challenges persist despite earlier crackdowns. He pointed to credible complaints from local residents and social media reports suggesting that illegal coal mining and unauthorised extraction of minor minerals are still continuing in parts of the area.
Anticipating possible resistance during enforcement drives, the administration has also imposed restrictions on gatherings. An order now bars assemblies of more than five people in and around mining sites in Thangsko, though government officials performing official duties are exempted to ensure operations are not disrupted.
The latest steps follow mounting concerns that, despite past regulatory efforts, unlawful mining has continued in the region. Authorities say the focus is not only on stopping current activities but also on preventing future violations through visible enforcement and strict legal action.
The administration maintains that these measures are necessary to curb illegal mining and ensure adherence to the law, while restoring proper management of natural resources in Thangsko.