Distressing regularity: On Meghalaya’s rat-hole mines
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Nuclear & new energy technology· Prelims + Mains·
Why in news
An explosion in an illegal coal mine in Meghalaya on February 5th killed at least 18 workers, highlighting the persistent issue of rat-hole mining despite a 2014 National Green Tribunal order.
Background
The incident occurred in a rat-hole mine in Meghalaya. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) had previously ordered the cessation of such mining activities in 2014.
Facts for Prelims
- PlaceMeghalaya: State in Northeast India where the illegal coal mine explosion occurred.
- Fact18 workers were killed in the February 5th explosion.
For Mains
Q. Critically analyze the challenges in curbing illegal rat-hole mining in Northeast India and suggest measures to ensure environmental compliance and worker safety.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Enforcement gap: Weak local oversight and fragmented ownership facilitate clandestine mining operations.
- Economic dependency: High reliance on coal income creates a cycle of illegal extraction despite regulatory bans.
- Technological deficit: Lack of advanced detection systems for monitoring remote and subterranean mining sites.
Keywords: Regulatory non-compliance · Environmental degradation · Occupational hazards · Enforcement mechanisms · Livelihood diversification
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This note is generated automatically from SatyaDheesh's news feed and mapped to the UPSC CSE syllabus. Check facts against the original report or PIB before using them in an answer.