Shillong, Feb 20, 2020: The Meghalaya State Co-ordination Committee of Coal Owners, Miners, Exporters, Transporters & Dealer’s Forum (MSCCCOMET&DF) has appreciated the steps taken by the state government to facilitate scientific coal mining in the state.

 In a statement issued on Thursday, chairman of the Forum, Sonny L Khyriem said that after much persuasion, the state government conceded to comply with the order of the Supreme Court passed on July 3, 2019 by initiating steps to facilitate for systematic, safe, scientific and to streamline coal mineral based development of the state.

 He said the Forum also acknowledged the decision of the government to announce the dates in a range of venues throughout the state and for coal miners to attend the proposed orientation and sensitization programmes on this regard.

 Khyriem however said coal mining areas like South West Khasi Hills and some parts of East Khasi Hills is yet to be notified while urging upon the necessity for an instant announcement to these stated places.

 The Forum had spearheaded the coal mining issue since the ban imposed by the National Green Tribunal on 2014 for fresh mining.