Meghalaya's Coal Mines Reopen: A Decade After Ban

Coal mining has officially restarted in Meghalaya, a decade after the National Green Tribunal (NGT) imposed a ban in 2014 due to environmental degradation, water pollution, and unsafe rat-hole mining practices.

The Ministry of Coal announced that two coal blocks — Saryngkham A in East Jaintia Hills and Pyndengshahlang in West Khasi Hills — have commenced operations following the necessary statutory clearances. Saryngkham A received approval on March 10, 2025, and began production on June 3, 2025. Pyndengshahlang was cleared on May 2, 2025, and started operations on June 5, 2025.

The resumption comes after years of legal and regulatory reforms aimed at promoting mining practices that are scientific, legal, and environmentally responsible.

The Ministry stated that this development highlights its commitment to fostering legal, safe, and sustainable mining while enhancing the North-East region’s role in meeting the country’s energy demands. It also called on state governments to support the push for scientific mining and improved coal transportation infrastructure to strengthen energy security and drive regional economic growth.

News by Rahul  Yelligetti.