Daily Hot Topic
Topic : Meghalaya Rat-Hole Coal Mining Damage
GS-3 Mains : Economy
Revision Notes
Question : Analyze the environmental and socio-economic impact of rat-hole coal mining in Meghalaya, highlighting safety concerns, environmental degradation, and the exploitation of child labor. Evaluate the reasons behind the persistence of rat-hole mining despite bans and regulations.
Context:
- Justice Katakey committee highlights lack of progress in environmental restoration.
Background:
- NGT banned rat-hole mining in 2014 due to environmental damage and threats to miners.
- Meghalaya High Court formed a committee in 2022 to suggest compliance measures.
What is Rat-Hole Mining?
- Narrow pits (3-4 feet) for one person to enter and extract coal.
- Miners descend with ropes/ladders and use basic tools.
Concerns:
- Safety:Unstable tunnels, poor ventilation, lack of safety gear.
- 2018: 15 miners died in East Jaintia Hills district.
- Environment:Land degradation, deforestation, water pollution.
- Acidification of Kopili river flowing through Meghalaya and Assam.
- Loss of Life:Hazardous conditions lead to frequent accidents and fatalities.
- Child Labor:Children employed due to small tunnel size.
Reasons:
- Limited Livelihood Options:Few alternatives for miners in some areas.
- Lack of Enforcement:Rat-hole mining is a main revenue source for some regions.
- Poverty:Economic hardship drives people to dangerous work.
- Economic Viability:No cheaper method for thin coal seams in hilly terrain.
Committee Findings:
- Acid mine drainage harms communities near mines.
- Meghalaya Environment Protection and Restoration Fund (MEPRF) underutilized.
- Transportation of verified coal to depots incomplete.
Way Forward:
- Utilize ₹500 crore funds for ecological restoration.
- Conduct drone survey to locate illegally mined coal after transport completion.
- Seize illegal coal deposits under the Mines and Minerals Act.
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