Shillong, July 28: Meghalaya Excise Minister, Kyrmen Shylla today said heavy rainfall in Meghalaya could be a reason for the disappearance of over 4,000 metric tons of coal, as noted in the 31st interim report submitted by Justice (Retd) BP Katakey to the Meghalaya High Court.
He said the coal might have been washed away due to high rainfall, making it difficult to determine if the disappearance was due to natural causes or illegal activities.
On July 25, the High Court directed the State to take action against those responsible and trace the persons who may have illegally lifted the coal.
“I am not justifying. Meghalaya receives the highest rainfall. You never know because of the rain, it got carried away,” Shylla said.
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However, he said he lacked sufficient details to confirm the cause and that all mining and transportation should be done legally.
He also addressed allegations of illegal coal mining, stating that evidence is required, and various departments are tasked with verifying such claims.
He expressed hope that the announcement of scientific mining by the Chief Minister would deter illegal activities, as people welcome the legal route.
On the inconvenience caused by NH-6 construction, Shylla called it a sign of progress and expressed confidence that the hardships will be worth it once development is complete.
(Newmai News Network)