Shillong ( Meghalaya), July 11: The state govt has taken decisive action to address the issue of illegal coke plants in the state and also ensure compliance to the orders of the High Court of Meghalaya.
A press statement stated that action had already been initiated against the illegal coke plants in December 2022 by shutting down these illegal plants and initiate the process of dismantling the bee-hive coke ovens to ensure that they do not become operational again. This process continued till April 2023 resulting in significant progress in eradication of these unlawful establishments.
In consonance with the Government’s commitment towards enforcing the law and directives of High Court, unequivocal directions were issued to demolish the entire infrastructure behind these unlawful establishments and identify and prosecute the culprits behind this illegal activity.
Consequently, the demolition of chimneys and other physical infrastructure of the illegal plants commenced from July 8 . 3 chimneys have already been demolished till July 10 and the mission is targeted to be completed by July 20 .
Several persons behind these illegal operations have been identified and arrested.
The concrete measures and proactive steps of the government in executing these actions to dismantle the infrastructure supporting the illegal coke plants are contrary to any perception of silence on the issue, stated a press release.
The press statement added that the government remains steadfast in its commitment towards upholding the rule of law and preserving the pristine environment of the state for its residents. The eradication of illegal coke plants is an essential step towards achieving these objectives and restoring the region’s ecological balance.
The government in a press note has urged all residents, local community members, and relevant stakeholders to support these measures and cooperate with the authorities during the ongoing operation.
