Tura(Meghalaya), Jan 15: A complaint was lodged with the National Green Tribunal (NGT) against illegal transportation of coal in the state by an activist.
In the complaint, activist Kingstone Bolwari stated that illegal mining as well as transport is taking place in the state without payment of royalty and without valid challan.
He also referred to the upholding of the ban on rat hole mining in the state by the Supreme Court through its judgment on Jul 3, 2019.
“Despite the order, the there are thousands of commercial trucks carrying coal on a daily basis when the order states that no extracted coal should be moved without the payment of royalty and without valid challans,” stated Bolwari in his complaint to the NGT.
The activist further added that this movement of trucks was being carried out right under the nose of the government.
“Government authorities are aware of the illegal transportation taking place without valid documents. They are aware that this will hurt the revenue of the state through the loss of taxes and royalty. Despite being fully aware, the entire government machinery (commissioner of transport, home department, mining and geology, DCs and SPs of various district), are neglecting to check this illegality,” he added.
The activist added that the neglect by the authorities has further emboldened the defaulters.
“Despite knowing everything they have remained quiet. It is therefore urged upon the committee to conduct a fresh inquiry into the matter and stop the movement of illegal coal,” added the complainant.
Bolwari raised the matter of coal being transported through many routes from Shallang including the roads through Athiabari – Aradonga, Langpi – Mona Haldipara. Both these routes are being used to transport the coal unto Boko in Assam, from where it is sent elsewhere.
He further stated that despite a Court order allowing for the transport of only 9 MT of coal per truck, almost all trucks were violating the norms while transporting coal.
“The government authorities encourage this violation and have been defying the order of the SC and a spot verification by the NGT committee and accordingly stop all illegalities while also drawing contempt proceedings,” said the activist.
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