EJH leaders reject open-cast mining, call for tailored solution from Centre

Shillong, India Jul 12, 2026 ALN: Rejecting central “open-cast” mining models as impractical for the region’s thin coal seams, local legislators and miners in Khliehriat are pushing for a customised mining policy to break the decade-long deadlock crippling the East Jaintia Hills economy.

During a general meeting of the Jaintia Coal Miners & Dealers Association (JCMDA) on Thursday, Sutnga Saipung MLA Santa Mary Shylla reported on her recent discussions with Union Coal Minister G. Kishan Reddy. Shylla argued that the standard open-cast mining methods mandated by central guidelines are geologically unfeasible for the district, where coal seams are only three to six feet deep.

She stated that enforcing such methods would cause excessive environmental damage while failing to extract resources efficiently. Instead, she and Khliehriat MLA Kyrmen Shylla are lobbying the Centre for a specialized mining framework that accounts for the region’s unique topography.

The issue of mining in the East Jaintia Hills is complex and multifaceted, rooted in both economic necessity and environmental concerns. The region has been economically dependent on coal mining for decades, with many families relying on it as their primary source of income. However, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) imposed a ban on unregulated mining activities in 2014, citing severe environmental degradation and health risks associated with coal mining practices in the area. This ban has resulted in significant economic challenges for local communities, leading to increased unemployment and social unrest.

While acknowledging public skepticism over the lack of a concrete timeline to resume mining, the MLAs stated that the JCMDA has spent the last three months petitioning the Chief Minister and Union officials to find a legal pathway around the NGT ban. The call for a tailored mining policy reflects a growing frustration among local stakeholders who feel that their specific needs and conditions are not being addressed by the overarching regulations imposed by the central government.

Khliehriat MLA Kyrmen Shylla addressed the economic and social strain the ban has placed on the district. He emphasized the importance of developing a mining strategy that not only allows for resource extraction but also prioritizes environmental restoration. Shylla called for a unified approach to environmental restoration—including reforestation and the treatment of acidic water bodies—as a prerequisite for any resumption of activity. This indicates a recognition among local leaders that any future mining operations must be conducted responsibly and sustainably to mitigate the environmental impact.

Responding to local tensions regarding the JCMDA leadership, Shylla defended the association’s president and urged cooperation between “coal barons” and the struggling families who remain dependent on the industry for survival. The term “coal barons” often refers to influential individuals or companies that dominate the coal mining sector, and there is a growing sentiment among local communities that these entities should play a role in supporting the broader community, especially in times of economic hardship.

The meeting was attended by MDCs of the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC), representatives from various NGOs, and small-scale business owners who have been sidelined since the 2014 mining ban. The presence of diverse stakeholders highlights the complexity of the issue at hand, as it involves not only miners but also local businesses and environmental advocates who are concerned about the long-term implications of mining practices on the region's ecology.

Historically, coal mining has played a significant role in the socio-economic development of the East Jaintia Hills. The region is known for its rich deposits of coal, which have been exploited for both domestic and commercial purposes. However, the unregulated nature of mining activities prior to the ban led to widespread environmental degradation, including deforestation, soil erosion, and pollution of water bodies. The NGT's intervention was aimed at curbing these practices and ensuring that mining is conducted in an environmentally sustainable manner.

The current push for a tailored mining policy is indicative of the ongoing struggle between economic development and environmental protection. Local leaders argue that a one-size-fits-all approach from the central government does not take into account the unique geological and socio-economic context of the East Jaintia Hills. They advocate for a regulatory framework that allows for responsible mining practices while also ensuring that local communities benefit from the resources extracted from their land.

As discussions continue, it remains to be seen how the Centre will respond to the demands of local legislators and miners. The outcome of these negotiations could have far-reaching implications for the future of mining in the region, as well as for the livelihoods of those who depend on it. A successful resolution could pave the way for a more sustainable and equitable mining industry, while failure to address these concerns may exacerbate existing tensions and economic challenges.

In conclusion, the call for a customized mining policy in Khliehriat reflects a broader struggle within the region to balance economic needs with environmental responsibilities. As local leaders seek to navigate this complex landscape, the need for dialogue and collaboration among all stakeholders will be crucial in shaping the future of mining in the East Jaintia Hills.

The economic dependency on coal mining in the East Jaintia Hills is not merely an issue of resource extraction; it is interwoven with the social fabric of the community. Many families have relied on coal mining for generations, and the sudden halt in mining activities due to the NGT ban has led to a ripple effect, impacting education, healthcare, and overall quality of life. Local leaders have expressed concerns that without a viable economic alternative, the youth in the region may become disillusioned, leading to a potential exodus from the area in search of better opportunities elsewhere.

Moreover, the environmental concerns raised by the NGT are not unfounded. The history of coal mining in the region has shown that without proper regulation, mining activities can lead to severe ecological damage. Water bodies can become contaminated with heavy metals, and air quality can deteriorate due to dust and emissions from mining operations. The challenge lies in finding a balance where mining can resume in a manner that mitigates these risks while still providing economic benefits to the community.

In the wake of the NGT ban, several community initiatives have emerged, focusing on sustainable practices and alternative livelihoods. Some local organizations have begun exploring eco-tourism and organic farming as potential avenues for economic development. These initiatives highlight the community's resilience and willingness to adapt, but they also underscore the urgency of addressing the mining issue in a timely manner to prevent further economic decline.

As the dialogue between local leaders and the Centre progresses, it is essential that all voices are heard, especially those of the marginalized communities who have been disproportionately affected by the mining ban. Ensuring that these communities have a say in the development of a tailored mining policy will be crucial in fostering trust and cooperation among all stakeholders.

Ultimately, the future of mining in the East Jaintia Hills will depend on the ability of local leaders to advocate for their community's needs while also adhering to environmental standards that safeguard the region's ecological integrity. The resolution of this issue could set a precedent for how similar conflicts are handled in other regions facing the dual challenges of economic development and environmental sustainability.